“Standing Guard Over Remembrance” Military Ceremonial Roll Call Marking the 85th Anniversary of the Soviet Invasion of Poland
On 16 September 2024, on the eve of the 85th anniversary of the Soviet invasion of Poland, the Katyn Museum in Warsaw, a branch of the Polish Army Museum, hosted the commemorative ceremony “Standing Guard Over Remembrance” at the Warsaw Citadel.
The event honoured the memory of those who lost their lives in defence of the Republic of Poland, as well as all victims of Soviet repression — military personnel, civilians, and those deported to Siberia and forced labour camps, many of whom made the ultimate sacrifice in service to their homeland. The ceremony constituted an expression of remembrance, gratitude, and a reaffirmation of the commitment to preserving historical truth for future generations.
The commemorations were attended by veterans, serving members of the Armed Forces, representatives of public institutions, and approximately 700 students from military-profile secondary schools and members of pro-defence organisations. Among the distinguished guests were Stanisław Wziątek, Deputy Minister of National Defence, and Lech Parell, Head of the Office for War Veterans and Victims of Oppression. The Polish Army Museum was represented by its Director, Professor Bogusław Pacek, while the Katyn Museum was represented by its Head, Sebastian Karwat.
In his address, Deputy Minister Stanisław Wziątek underlined the enduring significance of remembrance, patriotism, and public service, particularly in times of national challenge, when the Polish Armed Forces and uniformed services were actively engaged in providing assistance to communities affected by severe flooding in south-western Poland.
Lech Parell emphasised the historical consequences of totalitarian aggression against Poland and recalled the courage, sacrifice, and steadfastness demonstrated by generations of Poles in defence of national sovereignty and freedom. He noted that remembrance of their sacrifice remains both a duty and a responsibility entrusted to future generations.
Addressing the assembled youth, Professor Bogusław Pacek stressed the importance of cultivating historical awareness and carrying forward the legacy of remembrance.
Speaking on behalf of the younger generation, Nadia Frąckowiak, a student representative of a military-profile secondary school, highlighted the continuing relevance of the lessons of history and reaffirmed the responsibility of young people to preserve the memory of those who served and sacrificed for Poland.
During the ceremony, distinctions awarded by the Minister of National Defence were presented to individuals recognised for their contribution to preserving national remembrance and historical heritage. In addition, the Pro Patria Medal was conferred upon individuals distinguished in commemorating and promoting the history of Poland, including long-serving representatives of the Polish Army Museum.
The ceremony concluded with the laying of wreaths by representatives of state authorities and museum institutions at the Katyn Epitaph, paying solemn tribute to the victims commemorated there.
