Poznan celebrates Constitution Day at Freedom Square

Photo By Pvt. Joanna Gaona Gomez | Base Commander of Powidz, Col. Slusarz talks to U.S. Soldiers during the Constitution day ceremony May 3, 2019, in Freedom Square, Poznan, Poland. The Polish forces and U.S. forces practice interoperability through joint training and security cooperation exercises in order to enhance their international partnership. (U.S. Army photo by Pvt. Joanna Gaona Gomez)  

POZNAN, POLAND

05.03.2019

Story by Pvt. Joanna Gaona Gomez 

5th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment   

POZNAN, Poland -- Polish and U.S. Soldiers participated in the 228th Anniversary of the declaration of the Constitution of 1791. The annual Constitution Day ceremony was held on May 3, 2019, at Freedom Square and demonstrated that the U.S. alliance with Poland goes beyond the training events and promotes interoperability between both militaries.
“Today is the anniversary of the constitution of 1791 signed by King Poniatowski,” said Mayor Jacek Jaskowiak. “It was the first constitution in Europe, its purpose was to transform our country from the one ruled by nobility and church into free society without serfdom.”
Constitution day celebrates the day the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth’s constitution was adopted, which was a significant achievement for Poland making it a very significant holiday.
“It was an honor to be involved, watching their military in their dress uniforms, the professionalism they displayed, the military, the band, the civilian authorities. It was quite an honor to be a part of it,” said Maj. Scott Eberlein from the 407th Civil Affairs Battalion.
The people of Poland typically celebrate Constitution Day with military parades, spring concerts and family picnics. Some Polish citizens even gather at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, which is a monument dedicated to all the unknown soldiers who gave their lives for Poland.
The Polish Constitution was prompted by the political and social effects of the European Enlightenment, as well as the American Constitution of 1787. Poland’s constitution was the first in Modern Europe and second in the world.

• Date Taken: 05.03.2019
• Date Posted: 05.03.2019 11:29
• Story ID: 320605
• Location: POZNAN, PL