Illinois Army National Guard Col. Michael Kowalski, Commander of the 33rd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, recently addressed students at the Polish Museum of America in Chicago on March 8, underscoring the historical and ongoing military partnership between the United States and Poland. The event marked a key component of the State of Illinois’ official Pulaski Day celebrations.
A Legacy of Alliance
Col. Kowalski’s remarks focused on General Casimir Pulaski, a Polish-born military leader who is considered the “father of the U.S. Cavalry.” Pulaski fought for Poland’s independence before joining the American Revolution at the invitation of Benjamin Franklin. He notably distinguished himself at the Battle of Brandywine, where he is credited with saving the life of General George Washington.
The relationship between Polish and American forces, initiated by figures like Pulaski, continues through programs like the Illinois National Guard’s State Partnership Program with Poland, established in 1993. This program facilitates joint training and co-deployments.
Modern-Day Brotherhood
For 17 consecutive years, beginning in 2003, Illinois National Guard troops have co-deployed with their Polish counterparts, first to Iraq and then to Afghanistan. A powerful example of this alliance is the story of Staff Sgt. Michael Ollis, who was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his actions in Afghanistan on August 28, 2013.
During an attack on Forward Operating Base Ghazni, involving a car bomb and ten insurgents with suicide vests, Staff Sgt. Ollis linked up with Polish officer Lt. Karol Cierpica to engage the attackers. Ollis shielded Lt. Cierpica from an insurgent, sacrificing his own life when the attacker’s suicide vest detonated.
Lt. Cierpica attended the Medal of Honor ceremony, and he and the Ollis family have since developed a close relationship.
Future Collaboration
The Illinois National Guard, comprised of nearly 13,000 Soldiers and Airmen, has a history dating back to the Black Hawk War. It remains prepared to respond to emergencies both domestically and internationally. Continued participation in the State Partnership Program could lead to further joint training exercises and potential future co-deployments with Polish forces. The strength of this partnership may likewise encourage similar collaborations with other allied nations.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was General Casimir Pulaski?
General Casimir Pulaski was a Polish-born military leader who played a pivotal role in the American Revolution and is hailed as the “father of the U.S. Cavalry.”
When did the Illinois National Guard begin its partnership with Poland?
The Illinois National Guard’s State Partnership Program with Poland began in 1993.
What happened at Forward Operating Base Ghazni in 2013?
On August 28, 2013, insurgents launched a complex attack on Forward Operating Base Ghazni, beginning with a car bomb and followed by ten insurgents with suicide vests. Staff Sgt. Michael Ollis was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honor for his heroic actions during this attack.
As the United States and Poland continue to navigate a complex global landscape, how might this long-standing military partnership evolve to address emerging security challenges?
