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Dragutin GavrilovichSerbian and Yugoslav military leader, colonel
Date of Birth: 25.05.1882
Country:  Serbia |
Content:
- Dr. Dragutin Gavrilović: A Serbian War Hero
- Heroism in the Balkan and World Wars
- Battle of Belgrade
- Recognition and Post-War Service
- World War II and Captivity
- Legacy
Dr. Dragutin Gavrilović: A Serbian War Hero
Early Life and Military EducationDr. Dragutin Gavrilović, a prominent Serbian and Yugoslav military leader, was born in Čačak in 1882. In 1901, he graduated from the Military Academy in Belgrade, setting the foundation for his illustrious military career.
Heroism in the Balkan and World Wars
Gavrilović's military prowess was first showcased during the Balkan Wars. As the conflict escalated into World War I in 1914, he joined the fray.
Battle of Belgrade
The turning point in Gavrilović's career came in October 1915. As Austro-German forces attempted to cross the Sava and Danube rivers to capture Belgrade, Gavrilović, then a major, commanded a motley group of troops.
Amidst intense fighting, Gavrilović rallied his men with a legendary speech, inspiring them to launch a desperate counterattack. Despite their efforts, they could not dislodge the enemy's foothold. Gavrilović was severely wounded in the battle, which resulted in heavy casualties on both sides.
Recognition and Post-War Service
Gavrilović's heroism earned him the Order of the Star of Karageorge and the French War Cross. He continued his military service in the Royal Yugoslav Army after the war, eventually rising to the rank of colonel.
World War II and Captivity
During the Axis invasion of Yugoslavia in 1941, Colonel Gavrilović was captured and spent the remainder of the conflict in a prisoner-of-war camp. After the war, he returned to Yugoslavia and passed away in Belgrade in 1945.
Legacy
Dr. Dragutin Gavrilović's legacy lives on in the streets named after him in Belgrade, Niš, Čačak, and Užice. His bravery and leadership during the battle of Belgrade cemented his place as a war hero in Serbian history.
