EUFOR is proud to launch a new project, Faces of EUFOR, highlighting personnel from all troop-contributing nations. Through these stories, we aim to showcase the people behind the mission and their perspectives on Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Today we introduce Captain Patryk Dubas of the Polish Armed Forces, a young officer with a strong military education and a deep commitment to EUFOR’s mission. Captain Dubas’s passion for the military began in childhood in Poland, where his interest in history and military affairs steadily grew. What started as a fascination with war stories and films became a lifelong calling. After years of demanding training, rigorous examinations, and professional development, he now serves as a successful officer in the Polish Army.
Currently deployed in Bosnia and Herzegovina as part of the Polish Military Contingent, Captain Dubas serves at EUFOR Headquarters. His role involves overseeing and contributing to the planning of current operations under Operation Althea, whose primary mandate is to support the BiH institutions in maintaining a safe and secure environment for all citizens of BiH.
Captain Dubas sees parallels between Poland and Bosnia and Herzegovina, noting both nations’ resilience through periods of hardship and their rich cultural heritage. This connection motivates his service and strengthens his dedication to EUFOR’s mission.
Outside of duty, he enjoys exploring Bosnia and Herzegovina’s landscapes, cuisine, and hospitality. He particularly appreciates Kajmak cheese, which he describes as making “everything taste better.” His travels have taken him to Kravica Waterfalls, Una River National Park, and Bihać, experiences he treasures deeply.
Like many EUFOR personnel, Captain Dubas faces the challenge of separation from his family in Poland. Yet the warmth of the Bosnian people and the camaraderie of the multinational EUFOR community ease this burden. His service has also broadened his military experience at an international level, offering opportunities to work alongside colleagues from 25 nations and to learn from diverse military cultures.
Reflecting on his deployment, Captain Dubas emphasizes his pride in contributing to EUFOR’s mission: supporting BiH institutions in maintaining a safe and secure environment for all citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
