Eighty years after the historic Battle of Monte Cassino, Polish leaders, veterans, soldiers’ families, and the last surviving members of General Anders’ Polish II Corps will gather to honor this momentous occasion. The main commemoration will take place on Saturday, May 18, at the Polish War Cemetery atop Monte Cassino. Organized by the Office for Veterans and Victims of Oppression with support from the Polish Embassy in Rome, this event serves as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made during World War II.

One of the attendees is 99-year-old Józef Skrzynecki, who joined General Anders’ army at just 16 years old. During the Battle of Monte Cassino, he served as a tank crewman in the 4th Armored Regiment “Scorpion.” He also fought in the liberation of Bologna and Ancona before returning to Poland after the war.

Skrzynecki was recently recognized with the honorary „Inka Cross” in 2023 by the Veterans Association of the Republic of Poland in Gdynia. “He is an extraordinary, humble, and unassuming individual,” reads a statement on the website of the City of Łódź, where Skrzynecki resides. “Living a quiet life as a parishioner of St. Joseph and Our Lady of Mount Carmel, he blends into his community as a typical senior and kind neighbor. Yet, his life story is one of immense bravery—he was not just a witness to history but also its quiet hero.”

The Day’s Ceremonial Highlights

According to the official schedule, the main commemorative ceremony at the Polish War Cemetery will begin at 4:00 PM with a Mass, followed by prayers led by clergy of various faiths. National anthems will then be played, and the Chief of the Office for Veterans and Victims of Oppression will welcome attendees. Speeches by dignitaries will precede a Roll Call of the Fallen and a rendition of the iconic Polish war song, “Czerwone Maki” („Red Poppies”).

The ceremony will culminate in the laying of wreaths by official state delegations and a performance of the Mariacki bugle call. Afterward, the military honor guard will be ceremonially dismissed, marking the conclusion of the day’s events.

A Weekend of Remembrance

The commemorations extend beyond the main ceremony. On Friday, May 17, an event was held at 5:00 PM in Piedimonte San Germano to honor the 6th Armored Regiment, known as the „Children of Lwów.”

Sunday, May 19, will feature a ceremony at the Commonwealth Cemetery on Piazza Diamare at 5:00 PM.

The following day, Monday, May 20, at 10:00 AM, flowers will be laid at the bust of General Anders in Largo Gen. Anders near Museo Historiale. Later, at 5:00 PM in Acquafondata, wreaths will be placed at the Memorial Obelisk marking the original resting place of Polish II Corps soldiers.

Final Commemorations

The closing ceremonies will take place on Tuesday, May 21. At 10:00 AM, a tribute will be held at the monument for fallen Polish II Corps soldiers in San Vittore del Lazio. At 11:45 AM, the final wreaths will be laid at the Italian War Cemetery in Mignano Monte Lungo, concluding a week of reflection and gratitude for those who fought to secure freedom during one of World War II’s most grueling battles.

This solemn series of events underscores the enduring legacy of the Polish II Corps and honors the courage of the soldiers who gave everything in the name of liberty. As the number of living veterans dwindles, these commemorations carry even greater significance, ensuring their sacrifice is never forgotten.

Family News Service

Kontakt