Soldiers from the Bolesławiec unit named Officer and Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year 2020

The commission did not have an easy task. Following a lengthy analysis of all the candidates, the winners were selected. Representatives of all subunits competed for the titles of Officer, Non-Commissioned Officer and Private of the Year. The selection criteria were clear. Each candidate had to demonstrate, among other things, high training results, above-average commitment to service and an exemplary attitude in their daily professional duties.

The title of Officer of the Year was awarded to Maj. Bartłomiej Gruma of the 23rd Silesian Artillery Regiment from Bolesławiec. He is an officer with twenty years of experience and a very high level of specialist knowledge, which translates into the highest standard of task performance. He has been awarded the Star of Afghanistan, NATO-ISAF, NATO Non-Article 5-Balkans and the UN Medal for his professionalism.

“Through his daily attitude and commitment, he sets an example for the regiment’s other officers. He motivates others to act and is demanding but, at the same time, kind; he never refuses anyone help or support. He greatly values the history and traditions of the Polish Armed Forces, shows extraordinary respect for national symbols and, in everyday matters, is guided above all by honour, which is most important to him,” said Capt. Łukasz Mikołajczak, a member of the chapter.

The title of Non-Commissioned Officer of the Year went to Senior Sgt. Krzysztof Fekieta of the 23rd Silesian Artillery Regiment from Bolesławiec. He is an exceptionally physically fit soldier who has represented the 23rd Artillery Regiment many times in sporting competitions. He has received awards at the military-unit and General Command of the Branches of the Armed Forces levels, including the Star of Afghanistan and the NATO Medal.

“This is a tremendous distinction and a great honour for me, but also a huge responsibility before the corps of non-commissioned officers of the Black Division, as well as motivation to continue working in order to maintain such a high standard of service. I worked throughout my entire service to earn this title, and I also owe it to my superiors and subordinates, but above all to my family, whose enormous support helps them manage during my absences, for which I am very grateful. To me, the word non-commissioned officer means professionalism, leadership and specialist knowledge at the highest level. Today, non-commissioned officers play the most important role among the corps because of their responsibility as commanders, trainers and specialists, regardless of the positions they hold.

I am pleased that every day I can pass on professional knowledge to my subordinates and younger colleagues, share my experience with them and fulfil my dream, because I have always wanted to become a soldier—a non-commissioned officer. For several years, I have combined my passion for running with service, representing my subunit and unit in orienteering and cross-country races, so I do not have to worry about the physical fitness essential for a soldier. To those wishing to join the army, I would say that being a soldier is not only a job but hard service to the homeland, as well as an opportunity for professional fulfilment and for developing one’s passions. Putting on the uniform is a challenge that provides a sense of stability in life,” said Senior Sgt. Krzysztof Fekieta.

Among the privates, this honourable title went to Senior Private Marcin Marciniuk of the command battalion from Żagań. He is a soldier who systematically improves his qualifications and has participated in numerous specialist courses.

“The victory came as a surprise to me. I did not expect to win, so I am all the more grateful to all my colleagues who voted for me. I am pleased that my effort and commitment to service have been noticed. A soldier’s work gives me many opportunities and broadens my horizons; daily duties allow me to improve my skills. Privates play a very important role in the Polish Army. Our corps is like the engine driving the entire vehicle. My superiors treat us equally and reward us for the discipline, hard work and effort we put into our daily duties. In my free time, I read books on computer science and maintain my physical fitness by running every day. To those who would like to put on the uniform, I wish perseverance in pursuing their chosen goal,” said Senior Private Marcin Marciniuk.

The selected laureates share a commitment to service guided by the principles set out in the Honor Code of a Professional Soldier of the Polish Army. They are characterised by honesty and respect for others. They are always loyal, disciplined and worthy of sacrifice during and outside their service. They serve as examples for future generations of soldiers. Congratulations!