Park of the Greats

SRĐAN KNEŽEVIĆ

(1958-1998)

Srđan Knežević, better known as Beli vuk (White Wolf), was one of the most prominent military commanders in the history of the "Beli vukovi" (White Wolves) unit of the Army of Republika Srpska during the Bosnian War. His life and significance in military operations left a profound mark on Serbian history.

Srđan Knežević was born on January 19, 1958, in the village of Tvrdimici in Republika Srpska. He completed elementary school in Tilava and high school in Sarajevo. He grew up in difficult conditions but possessed exceptional bravery and determination that guided him throughout his life. He worked in the hospitality industry as the head of the hall at the "Panorama" Hotel on Pale.

At the beginning of the conflict in Sarajevo, Knežević responded to mobilization in the Reserve Police and went to Vraca. His first wartime success was the liberation of the village of Turkovici. After the formation of the Jahorina Battalion, Srđan became part of its ranks. After the death of Commander Schwabe in February 1993, he assumed command of the Jahorina Battalion. With his unit, he achieved numerous successes, liberating Mali, Veliki Jasen, Polom, and Moševačko Brdo. This was when the name "Beli vukovi" (White Wolves) first gained recognition. The White Wolves stood out in many battles, and their tactics were often key to the success of Serbian forces. They earned their name because they survived a snowstorm on Bjelašnica that only wolves could endure. From February 22 onward, Srđan's White Wolves were involved in actions to liberate the village of Trnovo. Other formations, such as Mauser's "Panthers" from Bijeljina and the special brigade of the RS Police, made significant contributions alongside the White Wolves. On May 16, during the battle at Debelo Brdo, Srđan was wounded along with 13 other Serbian fighters, while one soldier died.

His bravery, military skills, and leadership became extremely valuable to the Serbian forces. His significance in military operations during the war was undeniably immense. Knežević was a pivotal figure in numerous battles and military actions. His military tactics and strategy often provided a decisive advantage, allowing Serbian forces to resist the enemy.

After the war's end, Knežević retired from military service and served as the Deputy Chief of the Public Security Center of Serbian Sarajevo. He participated in various humanitarian actions and sought to aid people in rebuilding after the devastating war years.

Unfortunately, he was brutally killed on August 7, 1998, in an ambush in Pale, in front of the building where he lived with his family. His murder remains unresolved to this day.

In his honor and as a symbol of remembrance, a monument was erected in Pale, and the "Beli vuk" (White Wolf) complex was built in Tvrdimići. His life and significance as a commander of the "Beli vukovi" (White Wolves) unit in the ranks of the Army of Republika Srpska will forever be inscribed in Serbian history.