People participating in the march and those observing will pay tribute to General Casimir Pulaski, a man who fought for freedom for all and was a hero of two countries. They will honor Count Pulaski, a Polish patriot who fought to defend his country against oppression and aggression from Tsarist Russia. They will also recognize the great sacrifice of General Pulaski, who responded to Benjamin Franklin’s invitation and came to America to offer his services to General Washington as a cavalry officer in support of the American colonies’ struggle for independence. Unfortunately, in 1779, Pulaski was fatally injured in the Battle of Savannah and passed away two days later at the age of 32.
The title of “Father of the American Cavalry” is truly deserved by General Pulaski. Along with General Kosciuszko, they shared a spirit of devotion and dedication to the ideals of American freedom, which our Founding Fathers also held dear. This year’s parade theme, “Celebrating Poland and America Defending Freedom,” honors their legacy. Due to a special Mass for Saint John Paul II at 10:15 AM with Bishop Edmund Whalen as the principal celebrant, and Polish Bishop Janusz Stepnowski and others con-celebrating, our breakfast will be held at 8:30 AM at the 3 West Club before the Mass Liturgy at St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
I would like to express my heartfelt appreciation to the Grand Marshal, Honorable Franciesek R. Piwowarczyk from New Jersey. He has represented Polonia with great honor. May God continue to bless both the United States and Poland. We hope that all nations will one day enjoy the freedom that has enabled Polish immigrants to flourish and contribute to the United States greatness.
President Richard Zawisny
