Croatian Navy Day, observed in Croatia every September 18, commemorates the first recorded naval victory of the Croatian fleet in 887, when Duke Branimir defeated the Venetians near Makarska. This victory led to the Venetians paying tribute to Croatia for trading rights in the Adriatic Sea. The modern Croatian Navy was established in 1991 during the breakup of Yugoslavia and played a significant role in the Croatian War of Independence, notably in the Battle of the Dalmatian Channels and the Siege of Dubrovnik. Celebrations include military displays, solemn ceremonies with wreath-laying, and the harboring of Navy vessels in Makarska port. The day honors the contributions of the Croatian Navy and its members, featuring a reveille by the Navy orchestra and official speeches.