The Hero of Belgrade Who Became a Legend: 80 Years Since the Death of Colonel Dragutin Gavrilović
Have you ever heard of a man whose voice and bravery literally stopped the enemy and entered legend? Today, 80 years after his death, we remember Colonel Dragutin Gavrilović, a man who became a symbol of resistance and honor for Belgrade.
Birth and Early Life Dragutin P. Gavrilović was born on May 12 in Čačak. He lost his mother at the age of eight and his father at fourteen. Despite a difficult childhood, he completed elementary school and high school in his hometown, and then graduated from the Military Academy in Belgrade as part of the 32nd class.
Military Career and Balkan Wars His military career began in the 10th Cadre Regiment, where he received his first officer duty as a platoon commander. In the First Balkan War, he participated in the liberation of Kosovo and Metohija, and in the Second Balkan War, he showed exceptional bravery in the Battle of Bregalnica, where he was promoted to major.
World War I and the Defense of Belgrade His greatest fame and legend are tied to his role in World War I, especially in the defense of Belgrade. As the commander of the 10th Cadre Regiment battalion, on October 7, 1915, when the Serbian army was on the brink of defeat, he took the initiative to gather the remaining defenders and issued a famous order that became a symbol of courage and sacrifice.
His words: “Heroes, exactly at 3 PM the enemy must be broken by a mighty charge, shattered by bombs and bayonets. The honor of Belgrade, our capital, must be bright. You do not care for lives, they do not exist here. So forward, glory to the king, to the fatherland! Long live the king, long live Belgrade!” echoed as a call to the last battle.
Aftermath and Legacy Colonel Gavrilović was wounded and sent for treatment, soon promoted to lieutenant colonel. After the retreat through Albania and battles on the Salonika front, he continued to serve as a commander in several places. During World War II, he was captured and spent time in a German camp, returning to Belgrade after liberation, where he died on July 19, 1945, in poverty.
His grave at the New Cemetery in Belgrade was exempted from fees as a sign of gratitude for his merits to the fatherland.
Why Gavrilović Still Matters? In times when heroes are forgotten and history erased, Gavrilović remains a symbol of fearlessness and love for the homeland. His bravery and words continue to inspire new generations.
If this story sparked a flame of pride or reminded you of the importance of remembrance, drop a comment below and share your thoughts. Who knows, maybe you know another legend the world needs to hear!
Source: b92.net
