photo: Wikimedia Commons/Commemorating Heroes: PKP CARGO Employees Honor Poland's Defenders on WWII's 84th Anniversary
On September 1st, Poland commemorated the 84th anniversary of the start of World War II, paying special tribute to the brave Polish railwaymen and customs officers who thwarted a German plan to seize a crucial bridge at Tczew.
In 1939, the Germans had used a disguised freight train to secretly send an assault team with the aim of capturing the bridge, a vital link between the Reich and East Prussia. However, the vigilance of these men led to the train being diverted onto a dead-end track, allowing Polish engineers to demolish the bridge and hinder the German advance. In retribution, the Germans executed around 40 Polish officials and their family members.
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The commemorative events took place in two locations. The first was held at 8:30 a.m. in Kałdowo near Malbork, close to a monument dedicated to Polish customs officers. The occasion included a historical reenactment entitled "Kałdowo 1 September 1939," followed by speeches, prayers for the fallen, an appeal of remembrance, and an honor salute. Rail employees, including those from PKP CARGO, and customs officers from various parts of Poland were in attendance.
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The second part of the tribute started at 10:30 a.m. in Szymankowo, featuring a Mass at St. Florian’s Church led by Bishop Jacek Jezierski, Ordinary of Elbląg. Afterward, attendees moved to a monument erected in honor of the murdered railwaymen and customs officers. The ceremony concluded with the reading of the names of the deceased, another salute of honor, and the lighting of candles in both Kałdowo and Szymankowo as "Lights of Peace." These acts serve as solemn reminders of the bravery of those who stood against aggression and the heavy price they paid for their courage.
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