Polish American War Veterans

11/10/2026

PAWV Wishes the United States Marine Corps a happy 251st birthday!

HISTORY OF MARINE CORPS BIRTHDAY
On November 10, 1775, just eight months shy of the Declaration of Independence, a new corps was formed following the introduction of the Continental Marine Act. At the time, an official plan was developed by the Continental Congress to oversee a mission intercepting am******on cargo from Britain, using Marines. As suggested by the title, the group was known as the Continental Marines. While this group held several different duties, their core purpose was to provide additional security and support for the recently formed Continental Navy. First led by Commandant Samuel Nicholas, this branch of the burgeoning U.S. armed forces would culminate at just over 2,100 servicemen. In contrast, the number of active troops in the Continental Army at one time would reach a peak of approximately 80,000. This, along with a resolution made in November to create a stand-in official Marine Corps force, was essential to the formation and modernization of the now U.S Marine Corps. The reason for this resolution – the planning of an attack on Nova Scotia to annex it, never took place. However, the Marines remained.

After participating in a host of actions and battles throughout the Revolutionary War, the Continental Marines would be disbanded upon the end of the conflict. Eventually, due to the overall neglect of the whole Naval Service and lack of necessary and proper legislation, the department temporarily altogether went out of existence and ceased to exist. This remained so until 1794 when the first legislation was issued by the Congress, addressing the requirement for Marine and Navy Corps since the Revolutionary War.

In the late 1700s, the need for naval warfare to exude the military presence of the United States was looked at from another angle; to deal with piracy. The Marines were still running under the Navy at this time, with the latter itself operating under the Secretary of War. In 1798, the legislation to separate the U.S Navy to make its own department was passed; with further legislation to form the U.S Marines as a separate branch of service later in the same year. The Marine Corps would be established on July 11, 1798, and throughout the 19th century (and a portion of the next), this would be the date upon which marines would celebrate the founding of the Corps as an official entity.

The birthday was officially recognized in 1921. Major Edwin North McClellan of the Marine Corps History Division submitted a proposition to the ranking commandant which advocated for the anniversary to instead be designated on November 10. A series of standardizations as to how celebrations of the Marine Corps Birthday would be executed would follow in the 1950s. Since then, Marines have been encouraged to treat the anniversary with greater importance.

11/09/2026

Thank you everyone who was able to come out and spend some time with at our annual turkey shoot. We had a great turnout and a good time was had by all.

10/17/2026

Women in Military Service for America Memorial Anniversary, celebrated on October 17, is a special day that pays a tribute to the millions of military women who have lost their lives in service. U.S history includes many females who contributed to success in combat. These military women used their intellect and strength to protect the nation, and are seen as inspirational figures today. This year, honor these brave women by paying a special tribute to their accomplishments in times of war.

HISTORY OF WOMEN IN MILITARY SERVICE FOR AMERICA MEMORIAL ANNIVERSARY
When we think of the armed forces, it is natural to think of men fighting to save the country. However, the fact is that for generations, many strong and courageous women have also sacrificed their lives for their countrymen. Initially, women were found as nurses or cooks in war camps, but later, they too became a part of the combat. Believe it or not, women in the U.S have been a part of the armed forces since 1917, and several ladies lost their lives without their efforts being recognized by the world. Some even had to fight disguised as men besides their husbands in the American Revolutionary War.

In 1997, a memorial was erected for them by the U.S government, and it is popularly known as the Military Women’s Memorial. The space honors military women who died in service and contains a Hemicycle structure that was built in 1932. The structure, however, remained in a bad condition till Congress gave the order of building a memorial around it in 1988. This decision was followed by a design competition which was thrown to the public and won by Marion Weiss and Michael Manfredi who were architects from New York.

Although the initial design of the memorial became an open secret which resulted in controversies and a revision of the design. In the end, an intriguing structure with a mixture of Neoclassical and Modern architecture was built for the brave women who lay in the memorial.

10/13/2026

PAWV would like to wish the US Navy a Happy 251st Birthday!!

We recognize the brave men and women who have served our country — past and present. Established during the Revolutionary War, the original Continental Navy was formed, disbanded, and then reestablished nearly 10 years later. Today it’s the largest and most capable navy in the world, with the highest combined battle fleet tonnage. The Navy also boasts the world’s largest aircraft carrier fleet, over 300,000 active personnel, and nearly 100,000 in the Ready Reserve.

10/11/2026

PAWV recognizes General Pulaski Memorial Day.
The day recognizes the anniversary of Casimir Pulaski's death. He was a Polish hero of the American Revolution. By a presidential proclamation every year on October 11, this holiday is observed to commemorate General Pulaski’s death from wounds suffered at the siege of Savannah on October 9, 1779. The day also honors the heritage of Polish Americans. President George W. Bush issued a presidential proclamation on October 10, 2002, observing the day; President Barack Obama did the same on October 8, 2010; and on October 10, 2017, President Donald Trump proclaimed the day. There is a separate local holiday observed in areas with a large Polish population on the first Monday of March every year called Casimir Pulaski Day.

HISTORY OF GENERAL PULASKI MEMORIAL DAY
In 1929, Congress passed a resolution recognizing October 11 as General Pulaski Memorial Day. Each year, a presidential proclamation is issued to renew the resolution. And this has continued every year, except in 1930, since its inception.

The day is commemorated in the United States to recognize Casimir Pulaski, a Polish immigrant and the father of the American Cavalry. Over two centuries ago, Pulaski joined the Continental Army and quickly climbed ranks to Brigadier General. Alongside General George Washington, Pulaski carved a legacy for himself that included building a colonial military as yet undeveloped — the cavalry. His contribution in building the cavalry from the ground up made him the ‘father of the American Cavalry’.

While only 15 years old, Pulaski gained some knowledge of warfare when his homeland of Poland and Russia went to war. He decided to immigrate to the British Colonies after his encounter with Benjamin Franklin in Paris. It was Pulaski’s experience on the battlefield and his courage that made him a favorite of General Washington. Pulaski would not, however, live to celebrate the victory of the war. He was injured in the battle of Savannah on October 9, 1779. General Pulaski died a few days later on October 11. The day also honors Polish immigrants and their descendants who have made important contributions to American society. Generations of Polish have contributed to the growth of the nation in various fields. One can witness Polish excellence in the Armed Forces, skilled labor, innovation, and the arts and culture.

10/09/2026

09/18/2026

PAWV would like to wish the Air Force and the Air National Reserve a Happy Birthday!

HISTORY OF U.S. AIR FORCE BIRTHDAY
The first successful airplane was invented in 1903 and the U.S. military bought its first aircraft only six years later. Envisioning great success for their new invention, the U.S. Signal Corps established the first-ever military aviation organization, the Aeronautical Division, in 1907. However, the Aeronautical Division was too small and inadequate when it came to aerial combat years later. It became evident after the hardships of World War II that airpower would become even more crucial in the coming years. It was then that the National Security Act of 1947 reorganized the U.S. military and intelligence agencies, making the Air Force an independent organization.

The U.S. Air Force Day was first introduced by President Harry Truman on August 1, 1947. This was done to recognize the personnel of the fearless U.S. Air Force and all who have maintained and developed the nation’s air strength. This holiday was initially celebrated on August 1 to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Aeronautical Division, U.S. Signal Corps. However, on September 18, the U.S. Air Force was established as a separate branch of the US Armed Forces and this holiday received a new date.

This day aims to increase the public’s awareness of the importance of national security as well as show appreciation for those risking their lives to protect the country and maintain its prosperity.

HISTORY OF THE AIR NATIONAL GUARD
The Air National Guard as we know it today is a separate reserve component of the United States Air Force. The official birth date of the Air National Guard is 18 September 1947; the same day the Air Force became a separate service. The Air National Guard as we know it today was a product of postwar planning during World War II. The men and women of the Air National Guard are truly the epitome of our nation's first militia dating as far back as the Massachusetts Bay Colony in 1636. In those days, every able-bodied man had a weapon and could be called upon to lay aside the plow in defense of the state. Today's guardsmen and women are your doctors, lawyers, police officers, cooks, teachers, and factory workers, white and blue-collar workers. They are your civilians in peace; Airman in war -- we guard America's skies.

The Air National Guard has a unique dual-mission that consists of both Federal and State roles. This dual mission means not only being part of the nation's entire military force, but also being responsible to their respective states during times of state or community emergencies. In peacetime, the governor of each state or territory commands the Air National Guard. The Air Guard has been there to help their communities during such emergencies as; Hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, earthquakes and forest fires. During National crises, the Air National Guard is activated by the president of the United States. We have defended our national interests during World War II, Korean and Vietnam Wars, and Desert Storm/Desert Shield.

09/11/2026

Today we mark the 25th anniversary with remembrance of the events of today and the actions that followed. We thank those that served fighting the Global War or Terror.

History of Patriot Day
It was a terrifying day when four planes were hijacked on September 11, 2001 (also known as nine-eleven). The hijackers flew three planes into iconic buildings: the Pentagon in Washington DC and the Twin Towers of the World Trade Center in New York. The fourth plane crashed in a field in Pennsylvania after the plane passengers fought the hijackers. Nobody is certain where it was supposed to crash, but some people believe it was headed for the White House, the U.S. Capitol, the Camp David presidential retreat in Maryland, or one of several nuclear power plants along the eastern seaboard.

The impact of this attack was devastating. Around 3,000 lives were lost between plane passengers, those in the buildings that were struck, and front-line workers trying to save people. It was the biggest act of terrorism ever in the United States. Since then, airplane security has become stricter in many countries as they attempt to avoid a future terrorist attack like nine-eleven.

The majority of lives that were people that worked in the Twin Towers, especially the floors above the collision point as people were trapped and stranded at the top of the burning skyscraper. 411 men and women working in emergency services lost their lives trying to fight fires and rescue people from the buildings. It was a heartbreaking attack, which is why Patriot Day was proclaimed by President George W. Bush and is recognized every year on September 11.

On Patriot Day, U.S. flags are lowered halfway, and there is a country-wide moment of silence at 8:46 am (Eastern Daylight Time), which is when the first plane crashed into one of the Twin Towers. Although the attacks were in the U.S., Patriot Day is recognized worldwide as the news devastated and impacted people all over.

09/10/2026

Today is World Su***de Prevention Day. We wanted to remind our veterans of resources available if you start going into crisis or just need to talk.

For those that serve or who have served, crises can be heightened by their experiences during military service. If you’re a veteran or service member and in crisis, these resources can help. Crisis feels different for everybody and can arise from a wide range of situations before, during, or after military service.

Contact the Veterans Crisis Line:
Dial 988 then Press 1
or Dial Toll Free 1-800-273-8255 (Press 1)
or text 838255.

If someone you know is struggling here are some ways you can help.

Ask and listen. Be an active part of your loved ones’ support systems and check in with them often. If they show any warning signs for su***de, be direct. Tell them it’s OK to talk about feelings. Practice active listening techniques and let them talk without judgment.

Get them help and take care of yourself. Don’t be afraid to get your loved one the help they might need. The Lifeline and Veterans Crisis Line are always here to talk or chat, both for crisis intervention and to support friends and loved ones. For additional support, look into https://www.caregiver.va.gov/.

Be there. Everyone deals with pain differently. A simple act of kindness to the veteran or service member in your life can help that person feel less alone.

09/03/2026

This years Flags of Valor display will be from September 5th to 13th on Art hill in Forest Park. It is free to go.

You're invited to watch Art Hill transform.

On Installation Day, Saturday, September 5, thousands of flags will go up between 7 and 10 a.m. as 1,200+ volunteers turn this hillside into one of America's most powerful memorials, row by row.

Then join us for the Opening Ceremony and Blessing of the Flags, 10-10:45 a.m., featuring:
— The National Anthem
— Remarks from a 9/11 survivor
— Remarks from an Afghanistan veteran
— Patriotic music by Sapphire Blue
— An interfaith Blessing of the Flags
— Closing remarks from Police Chief Robert J. Tracy
— Taps

This is free and open to the public. Bring your family. Bring your kids. Come stand on Art Hill and watch history happen.

Join us September 5, 7 a.m., at Art Hill in Forest Park. No RSVP needed, just show up and watch it unfold. Forest Park Forever