The Christmas Eve gathering began on Monday, December 17, at five p.m. In addition to the soldiers and their families, it was attended by subunit commanders and the management staff of the Świętoszów unit.
On behalf of the commander of the 10th Armored Cavalry Brigade, the deputy commander, Colonel Zbigniew Śliżewski, offered greetings to those gathered:
Today, this gathering brings us closer to Christmas. It is a time when, in addition to exchanging holiday greetings, we can pause for a moment and talk calmly.
Let us therefore use these few hours to talk within our small military family. On behalf of the commander, the command and staff of the 10th Armored Cavalry Brigade, as well as on my own behalf, I wish you, above all, health and happiness. If you have these, fulfilling your dreams will be much easier.
May the approaching Christmas holidays bring all of you a moment of respite and rest among your loved ones, and may the New Year 2019 be an opportunity to accomplish what you have planned.
Major Chaplain Michał Zieliński, parish priest of the Military Parish in Świętoszów, said a prayer and gave a blessing to those gathered at the Military Club. He concluded his speech with the words of Mother Teresa of Calcutta.
The exchange of greetings was traditionally accompanied by sharing the Christmas wafer. Then, while the adults spent time talking, the youngest participants of the Christmas Eve gathering devoted themselves to carefree play.
The Armored Brigade’s Military Club did not disappoint this time either. Numerous games and competitions were organized for the children. Inflatable playgrounds with slides were an undeniable attraction, allowing every child to use up their energy.
However, the meeting with Santa Claus aroused the most excitement, especially among the youngest. Every child received a package from him.
(Soldiers wounded or injured during missions abroad are happy to take part in the organized gatherings. For them, it is an opportunity to spend time together and talk).