On 22 May 2026, a ceremonial ceremony marking the County Firefighter’s Day Celebrations took place at the Old Theatre in Bolesławiec. The event was attended by officers of the State Fire Service, members of Volunteer Fire Brigades from Bolesławiec County, and representatives of the authorities, services and institutions cooperating with the fire service.
Photos by Janusz Wilk:
The ceremony began at 12:00. The host of the event was the county commander of the State Fire Service in Bolesławiec, Senior Brigadier Andrzej Śliwowski, who welcomed the invited guests and participants in the celebrations.
Those attending the ceremony included the Lower Silesian provincial commander of the State Fire Service, Senior Brigadier Piotr Grzyb; member of the General Board of the Association of Volunteer Fire Brigades of the Republic of Poland, retired Senior Brigadier and firefighter Ryszard Dąbrowa; Bolesławiec County head Tomasz Gabrysiak; as well as representatives of local authorities, uniformed services, the military, the police, and county inspection bodies and services. Former State Fire Service officers also attended, including former county commanders of the State Fire Service in Bolesławiec.
Decorations for distinguished firefighters and activists
One of the most important parts of the ceremony was the presentation of state, departmental and association decorations to people particularly committed to fire-protection activities.
The ceremony included the presentation of:
- 2 Silver Badges of Merit for Fire Protection,
- 6 Bronze Badges of Merit for Fire Protection,
- 4 St Florian Badges “For Merits to the Local Community”,
- 1 Golden Badge of the Association of Volunteer Fire Brigades of the Republic of Poland,
- 1 Bolesław Chomicz Honorary Medal,
- 2 Gold Medals “For Merits to the Fire Service”,
- 3 Silver Medals “For Merits to the Fire Service”,
- 1 Bronze Medal “For Merits to the Fire Service”.
Additionally, four people received the medal “For Merits to the Association of Retired and Pensioned Firefighters of the Republic of Poland”.
Promotions in the State Fire Service ranks
The County Firefighter’s Day Celebrations also provided an opportunity to present certificates awarding higher service ranks. A total of 12 officers were promoted in the service corps, including:
- 3 officers,
- 5 warrant officers,
- 4 non-commissioned officers.
Another five firefighters were promoted to higher service positions.
The appointments were an expression of recognition for the professionalism, commitment and daily service provided for the safety of the residents of Bolesławiec County.
Thanks for service and commitment
After the official part concluded, the invited guests addressed the attendees. In their speeches, they emphasised the importance of the work of State Fire Service firefighters and Volunteer Fire Brigade members, thanking them for their dedication, readiness to help and actions undertaken for local communities.
This year’s County Firefighter’s Day Celebrations in Bolesławiec were not only an opportunity to present decorations and promotions, but also to express gratitude to all firefighters for their daily service. The organisers thanked the participants and guests for attending and jointly celebrating one of the most important events in the firefighters’ calendar.