October 11 is Pulaski Day

October 9, 2008 

General Casimir Pulaski

General Casimir Pulaski was a Polish-born hero of the American Revolutionary War and time-honored “Father of the American Cavalry.” General Pulaski, a native of Poland, fought on the side of the colonists against the British in the American Revolution. Pulaski was bestowed the rank of brigadier general by George Washington for his courage and bravery. Pulaski valiantly fought in defense of freedom at Brandywine and Charleston, SC, among other battles. He died during a battle in Savannah, Georgia, in October of 1779.

Pulaski has been honored throughout U.S. history. In September, 1929, Congress designated October 11 as Pulaski Day to be observed by Presidential Proclamation; it also authorized the Post Office to issue a Pulaski commemorative stamp. In 1973, Illinois designated the first Monday of March as Pulaski Commemorative day in Illinois and in 1986 declared the day to be a state holiday.  In 2007, U.S. Senate issued a resolution proclaiming Casimir Pulaski to be an honorary citizen of the United States posthumously. When passed by Congress and signed by President the resolution will grant posthumous honorary citizenship to the Polish hero who gave his life for American independence and will make Pulaski the sixth person who has ever been declared honorary citizens of the United States.

“General Casimir Pulaski was a brave hero who gave his life so that America could be free. He embodies the very deep and devoted nature of the Polish-American friendship, and Poland’s long history of political, cultural and economic ties with the United States” said Ambassador Victor Ashe.

Status of the resolution in Congress