The concert was attended, among others, by the Minister of National Defence Bogdan Klich, Gen. Franciszek Gągor, Chief of the General Staff of the Polish Armed Forces, and Maj. Gen. Tadeusz Płoski, field bishop.
Christmas is a special time, including for those who cannot spend it with their families. This is the situation of 2,500 Polish soldiers. “I thank them for their patience, fortitude and courage. Especially now, as a truly difficult year is coming to an end,” said Bogdan Klich, head of the Ministry of National Defence, while extending his wishes. Special thanks were also expressed to the soldiers’ families, whose support plays a very important role.
“A concert like this is a very good idea. It perfectly conveys the holiday atmosphere. It is important that we can spend such moments all together, as today or during Christmas Eve,” said Maj. Józef Zaguła, who will spend this year’s holidays in Afghanistan.
Soldiers of the Polish Military Contingent in Afghanistan gathered in large numbers to take part in this unusual event. “My family is not there in Warsaw; it was too far for them to come from Bydgoszcz. They sent me a Christmas wafer in a holiday parcel, and I will certainly think of them on Christmas Eve. Somehow, one has to cope with longing,” said Senior Private Marcin Kuczma.
On behalf of the soldiers, Christmas wishes to Poland were conveyed by Brig. Gen. Janusz Bronowicz, commander of the sixth rotation of the Polish Military Contingent in Afghanistan, who announced that traditional dishes would be served on the Christmas Eve table in Afghanistan. The Nativity scene has already been prepared. The soldiers will also be able to attend Midnight Mass.
Tradition dictates that an empty place setting be left at the table during Christmas Eve dinner. “Such a place commemorates those who did not return home from the mission,” said field bishop Tadeusz Płoski, who on Monday evening said a prayer for the repose of the soul of Senior Private Michał Kołek (who was killed last Saturday).
“The most important wish one can offer a soldier serving in an area of armed conflict is the wish for a safe return home. That is what matters most here,” the bishop added.
In addition to the contingent in Afghanistan, soldiers serving in Kosovo and Bosnia also heard the wishes.
Soldiers of the 23rd Silesian Artillery Regiment are also stationed at the Ghazni base (Afghanistan). The artillerymen from Bolesławiec are part of the Fire Support Group of the sixth rotation of the Polish Task Forces. You can read more about this HERE.
(information: Anna Pawlak/ii)