Franc Rozman

Franc Rozman, also known by his nom de guerre Stane or Stane Mlinar, was a prominent Slovene Partisan commander during World War II. Born on March 27, 1911, in Spodnje Pirniče, Carniola, then part of the Austro-Hungarian Monarchy, Rozman was raised in a working-class family. His father, a railway track-worker, died during World War I, leaving Rozman to face a challenging childhood. Despite these hardships, Rozman developed a strong interest in military service, which was reflected in his later life. After his military service in the Royal Yugoslav Army, Rozman's anti-fascist sentiments led him to join the International Brigades during the Spanish Civil War. He became a member of the Spanish Communist Party and demonstrated his leadership skills through various military roles. Upon returning to Yugoslavia, he played a significant role in the resistance movement against the Axis forces. Rozman's dedication to the cause of freedom and his strategic acumen earned him the rank of Lieutenant General and the title of People's Hero of Yugoslavia. His untimely death in combat on November 7, 1944, in Lokve, Črnomelj, was a significant loss to the Partisan movement. Rozman's legacy continues to inspire as a symbol of resistance and courage.