Rafael Boban

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Rafael Ranko Boban (December 22, 1907 - 1945) was a member of the Croatian World War II Ustaše regime, and the commander of the "Black Legion"/Crna Legija.

Boban was born in Sovići near Grude. He emigrated from Yugoslavia in 1932 and it was at this time that he met and joined Ante Pavelić. He returned to Croatia that same year and took part in the unsuccessful Velebit Rebellion.

After the death of Jure Francetić, Boban became the sole commander of the Black Legion.

Closer to the war's end he was a Domobran general as well. It is speculated that he was killed in 1945 in northern Croatia while his forces were in retreat. However, some say that he lived until at least 1947. He emigrated to the U. S. and became a colonel in the U. S. Army.

Boban was awarded the honorary title Vitez ("knight") and the title is often included with his name.

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