Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of National Defence Mariusz Błaszczak stated that service on foreign missions strengthens Poland’s global standing. Speaking during the Veterans Day of Operations Abroad in Nowy Dwór Mazowiecki, he highlighted the crucial role of military personnel and urged civilian employees to consider joining the armed forces.
“This service shapes Poland’s position on the international stage”
The minister emphasized that the service is highly significant for Poland’s influence abroad. He noted that Poland remains an active ally within NATO and contributes to missions under EU and United Nations frameworks.
During the ceremony, the head of the Ministry of National Defence signed a decree to promote military service among civilian staff within the ministry’s organizational units.
“We are building homeland security through our activity and strength in alliances, especially in an environment where threats may arise” he remarked.
The current security context, including the war near Poland’s borders and Russia’s aggression against Ukraine, underscores the importance of a robust Polish armed forces, firmly anchored in alliances, primarily NATO.
Acknowledgement of the Veterans Act Amendment
Błaszczak noted that the Sejm recently passed an amendment to the Veterans Act, drafted by the Ministry of National Defence. The change would extend allowances for those wounded on missions to include active service personnel who are still ill or undergoing service. He also announced a decree promoting military service within the ministerial structure.
From 172,000 to 300,000: A Vision for a Stronger Army
The minister referred to plans for an army of 300,000, including new forms of service such as voluntary conscription. He stated that the current force stands at 172,000 across all service branches, including the forces for operations abroad and volunteers in basic service programs.
“I encourage others to join the Polish army” he stated. He noted that subordinate units employ more than 40,000 people—many civilians, some retired soldiers—whose work supports the military’s mission.
The decree signed on the previous day is intended to attract civilians to military service. The first path enables a civilian employee to transition to a military role with higher pay after basic voluntary service training. The second path allows a civilian to enter the War Territorial Organization with a salary supplement of 1,000 PLN and additional leave. The minister urged taking advantage of these options as a strong defense deterred potential aggressors.
“Poland has a clear advantage—a trained soldier who can operate weapons”, the minister affirmed. He warned against Russian attempts to rebuild imperial influence and reiterated that neighboring countries remain under threat.
Awarding Departmental Honors
During the ceremony, veterans received department honors, including the Wounds and Injuries Badge and Defense Merit Medals. Major Katarzyna Rzędowska, director of the Center for Veterans Operations Outside Borders, pointed out that Veterans Day coincides with the United Nations International Day of Peacekeepers.
From Korea to Haiti, Polish personnel and military collaborators have served to maintain world peace and security, delivering essential support on multiple missions.
Veterans Day Reflections
The celebrations recalled Poland’s five decades of involvement in international operations. Service under the UN Blue Flag has contributed to stability and peace while reflecting Poland’s readiness to fulfill its international obligations. The event also acknowledged the dangers faced by soldiers, staff, and officers who undertake these tasks.
Veteran officers from the SOP, police, and the SFS were commended by the deputy head of the Ministry of Internal Affairs and Administration during a letter of commendation that highlighted their professional duties in Kosovo, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Ukraine, and Haiti. The letter affirmed Poland’s commitment to its allied obligations.
Participants included veterans from the 4th Veterans Motorcycle Rally and cyclists from the 6th Airborne Brigade, Krakow, who traveled great distances to honor their fallen colleagues. The event featured a military pavilion displaying equipment such as Rosomak wheeled armored personnel carriers and Cougar armored vehicles.
The Day of Veterans of Actions Beyond State Borders, established by the Sejm in 2011, was first observed on May 29, 2012.
Source attributions reflect the event reporting and coverage from wPolityce. These remarks underscore Poland’s ongoing dedication to international security duties and the readiness of its armed forces to meet contemporary challenges.