October 11 – General Pulaski Memorial Day

“NOW, THEREFORE, I, BARACK OBAMA, President of the United States of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and the laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim Sunday, October 11, 2009, as General Pulaski Memorial Day. I encourage all Americans to commemorate this occasion with appropriate programs and activities paying tribute to Casimir Pulaski and honoring all those who defend the freedom of our great Nation.”
(Source: Whitehouse.gov)

That’s right people it is a day to remember General Pulaski. First of all you need to know who he is. Here is a brief overview:

Born in Poland in 1745, Brigadier General Casimir Pulaski witnessed the occupation of Poland by foreign troops during his youth. He joined the struggle for Polish independence in 1768. Despite the tremendous courage of Pulaski, the foreign forces prevailed and Poland was divided among three of its neighbors. The Pulaski was exiled, and, while in Paris, met America's envoy to France, Benjamin Franklin, and learned of our nascent quest for independence.

Arriving in America during the summer of 1777, General Pulaski quickly earned a commission and led his troops with admirable skill in a number of important campaigns. He would eventually become known as the "Father of the American Cavalry." In 1779, Pulaski was mortally wounded during the siege of Savannah while trying to rally his troops under heavy enemy fire. Before laying down his life for the United States, this Polish and American hero had earned a reputation for his idealism and his courageous spirit.        (Source: Enews park Forest)

He also saved the life George Washington!

While doing my research I discovered that in Grand Rapids, Michigan – where I am from – there is a celebration called Pulaski Days to honor General Pulaski. There are also statues of him in Detroit and Washington DC, and a number of schools named after him.

I had never heard of him before this day! See the things you learn from this blog…it’s amazing!