On Saturday and Sunday, ceremonies marking the 37th anniversary of the formation of a commando unit in Bolesławiec took place. The “Red Berets” accompanied the city’s development for 27 years. The soldiers took part in almost all UN peacekeeping missions.
Ten years ago, the subunit was disbanded. This came as a great surprise to everyone, because the Bolesławiec commandos were among the best in the country. Two years ago, the honorary 62 Commando Association was established, bringing together former soldiers and supporters of the company.
Once a year, a ceremonial gathering is held for the soldiers who had the honor of serving in this elite unit. This year’s gathering took place on Saturday beneath the monument to the Fallen Soldiers of the First Independent Commando Company and the Deceased Soldiers of the 62nd Special Company. In addition to soldiers’ memories, over the two days the former commandos provided the city’s residents with many attractions. A shooting competition for the trophy of the president of the 63rd Company Association, Major Andrzej Żdan, a commando fitness demonstration, and parachute jumps were held. The highlight of the ceremonies was the second boxing tournament for the Association President’s Cup, whose main organizer is Ryszard Tomczyk, a multiple-time representative of Poland in boxing.
Company history
Established at the beginning of 1967, the 62nd Special Company was stationed in Bolesławiec from 29 November of the same year. The subunit was disbanded on 31 August 1994. The Association of the 62nd Special Company preserves the traditions of this elite unit. During the subunit’s 27 years of existence, more than 200 professional soldiers served in its ranks and trained 2,000 commandos.