Due to the restrictions in force, the ceremony of handing over the Standard took place at the Military Club in Świętoszów. The ceremony was attended by the commander of the 11th Lubusz Armored Cavalry Division (11LDKPanc), along with the commanders of the Black Division’s units, as well as the senior leadership of the 10th Armored Cavalry Brigade (10BKPanc). The ceremony was also honored by the presence of the former Division commander, now Deputy Commander of the General Branches of the Armed Forces – Major General Stanisław Czosnek.
At the ceremony’s culminating moment, Brigadier General Artur Pikoń handed the unit standard to Colonel Rafał Kowalik. “The resolution was then read, under which the chapter honored the commander of the 10BKPanc, for the duration of his service in the Brigade, with a gold temporary badge – Colonel Kowalik – and, after the completion of his service in the Brigade, the departing commander, Brigadier General Pikoń, with a gold replica of the commemorative badge,” says Captain Monika Wywiórka of the 10th Armored Cavalry Brigade. “After the badges were presented, Brigadier General Pikoń and Colonel Kowalik reported to the Commander of the 11LDKPanc that they were handing over and assuming the duties of Brigade commander. Brigadier General Parylak then placed a black shoulder board on Colonel Rafał Kowalik, distinguishing the soldiers of the Black Division, which inherits the traditions of the 1st Armored Division commanded by General Stanisław Maczek.
Speeches followed. Brigadier General Artur Pikoń thanked everyone for the time spent among the armored troops:
It is and was a source of pride to have the opportunity to command you. Thanks to your professionalism, commitment and our joint efforts, we have repeatedly proved that the Świętoszów Brigade deserves to be called the best in the Polish Army.
Colonel R. Kowalik:
For a tank soldier from Żurawica, which cultivates the traditions of the units and soldiers who helped create the 10th Cavalry Brigade, and a soldier of the Rzeszów garrison, where Colonel Maczek served as commander of the 10th Cavalry Brigade, being appointed commander of a unit patronized by General Stanisław Maczek is a great honor.
Commanding the Brigade is a great privilege and satisfaction, but above all, a tremendous responsibility. I am aware of the many challenges and duties that lie ahead of me and the Brigade. I know there will be many different initiatives and training tasks. I am nevertheless convinced that both I and the soldiers and employees of the 10th Armored Cavalry Brigade will have enough drive to face all difficulties. This conviction comes from the knowledge that I have been entrusted with commanding a team of professionals—people with extensive and rich experience gained during service and work both at home and abroad.
Ladies and Gentlemen! By accepting the Standard today, I pledge to act in accordance with the honor and dignity of a soldier of the Armored Brigade, and I promise that I will not forget the traditions of the units commanded by the legendary commander and our patron, General Stanisław Maczek.
(As a memento of his service in the Brigade, Brigadier General Artur Pikoń received a replica of the 10BKPanc standard).
The armored troops:
We thank Brigadier General Artur Pikoń for his command and service in the 10th Armored Cavalry Brigade and wish him success in his new position, while we wish Colonel Rafał Kowalik every success from the very beginning in the armored ranks of the “Tenth”.