Veteran’s Day – Polish Independence Day
As Polish Americans November 11 is special for two reasons. Not only is it Veterans’ Day – a day to recall the heroic deeds and sacrifices of those who have given so much so that our nation could be free – it is also Polish Independence Day – a day to commemorate Poland being freed from the German, Austro-Hungarian and Russian empires and the restoration of Poland's sovereignty as the Second Polish Republic in 1918.
November 11 in the U.S. initially marked the end of World War I and was known as Armistice Day. So much has transpired since that time and unfortunately men and women in both countries have answered the call and served in the armed forces. Whether it be veterans of World War II, the Korean Conflict, the Vietnam War or the more recent wars in the Middle East, veterans had put their lives on hold and at risk to fight against tyranny and for freedom.
Polish and American ties go back to the founding of the United States. We are all familiar with the deeds and sacrifices of men like Pulaski and Kosciuszko. We know the history of Poland and it being wiped off the maps of the world for 123 years.
We should remember that Poland and the United States would not be the free countries they are today if it were not for those brave souls of the past and today who we call veterans. Never should their actions be taken for granted. Never should they be forgotten.
November 11 in the U.S. initially marked the end of World War I and was known as Armistice Day. So much has transpired since that time and unfortunately men and women in both countries have answered the call and served in the armed forces. Whether it be veterans of World War II, the Korean Conflict, the Vietnam War or the more recent wars in the Middle East, veterans had put their lives on hold and at risk to fight against tyranny and for freedom.
Polish and American ties go back to the founding of the United States. We are all familiar with the deeds and sacrifices of men like Pulaski and Kosciuszko. We know the history of Poland and it being wiped off the maps of the world for 123 years.
We should remember that Poland and the United States would not be the free countries they are today if it were not for those brave souls of the past and today who we call veterans. Never should their actions be taken for granted. Never should they be forgotten.