GENERAL PULASKI MEMORIAL DAY
General Pulaski Memorial Day on October 11th, honors a Polish hero of the American Revolution.
#GeneralPulaskiMemorialDay
The day is set aside in the United States to recognize Casimir Pulaski, a Polish immigrant. Over two centuries ago, he joined the Continental Army and soon rose in the ranks to Brigadier General.
Alongside General George Washington, he built a legacy that included raising an arm of the colonial military as yet undeveloped – the cavalry. As such, he became known as the father of the American cavalry.
While only 15 years-old, Pulaski earned battle experience when his homeland of Poland and Russia went to war. He later immigrated to the British Colonies after meeting Benjamin Franklin in Paris. It was Pulaski’s experience on the battlefield and his perseverance that gained General Washington’s trust. However, Pulaski would not see the end of the war. Injured in battle, he died wounds suffered at the Siege of Savannah on October 9, 1779. General Pulaski died a few days later on October 11th.
The day also honors Polish immigrants and their descendants across the country. Generations have contributed to the founding of the United States, and its continued growth. Whether through service in the Armed Forces or skilled labor, innovation, or the arts, their enduring heritages lives on.
Presidential Proclamation 2018
HOW TO OBSERVE GENERAL PULASKI MEMORIAL DAY
Learn more about General Pulaski and the history of the United States Cavalry. Visit a cavalry museum or read about General Pulaski.
Francis C. Kajencki published The Pulaski Legion in the American Revolution in 2004.
David R. Collins published Casimir Pulaski: Soldier on Horseback in 1995 for young readers.
Use #GeneralPulaskiMemorialDay to post on social media.
GENERAL PULASKI MEMORIAL DAY HISTORY
In 1929, Congress passed a resolution designating October 11th as General Pulaski Memorial Day. Each year, a new presidential proclamation renews the resolution. (Public Resolution 16 of 1929)
A Presidential Proclamation has been issued each year since (except 1930).