Embassy Events 2006

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On December 1, U.S. Ambassador to Poland Victor Ashe and Commander of the Polish Land Forces Command, Lieutenant General Skrzypczak, awarded five Polish army officers with U.S. military medals for their service in Iraq. The awardees were: Major General Piotr Czerwiński, awarded the Legion of Merit; Brigadier General Andrzej Malinowski, awarded the Meritorious Service Medal; Brigadier General Włodzimierz Potasinski, awarded the Meritorious Service Medal; Brigadier General Mirosław Rozmus, awarded the Meritorious Service Medal; and Colonel Ryszard Gardy, awarded the Bronze Star. “These awards are among the highest that the United States military bestows on non-Americans. They are but modest recognition of the outstanding leadership and professional qualities of these fine officers. These awards also commend the dedication and superb performance of all Polish soldiers who have served and continue to serve with distinction in the difficult operational environment of Iraq,” said Ambassador Ashe.


U.S. Ambassador to Poland Victor Ashe
Remarks at Presentation of U.S. Service Awards
December 1, 2006



General Skrzypczak, Generals and officers of the Polish Land Forces:

I am honored to represent the President of the United States and the American people here today as we honor officers of the Polish Land Forces who distinguished themselves while serving with the Polish contingent in Iraq.

These awards are among the highest that the United States military bestows on non-Americans. They are but modest recognition of the outstanding leadership and professional qualities of these fine officers. These awards also commend the dedication and superb performance of all Polish soldiers who have served and continue to serve with distinction in the difficult operational environment of Iraq.

Poland's exceptional contribution to the mission in Iraq, as well as to the overall Global War on Terrorism, has helped forge a strong bond between our nations and armed forces. The United States respects greatly Poland's commitment to this vital mission, both in fielding its sizable national contingent and in commanding the Multinational Division, Center-South. We equally honor Poland's enduring commitment to the shared principles, values, and ideals that are the foundation of our strategic partnership. Poland’s recent decision to deploy over 1,000 troops to Afghanistan early next year reaffirms those values. The close cooperation between our militaries, whether in training areas here in Europe, or in distant theaters of operations, strengthens the security of both our nations and promotes stability in our troubled world.

I would again like to congratulate these superb Polish officers whose service we recognize and honor today. Though the period of their service in Iraq recedes in time, their experience and example will remain relevant for future generations of Polish soldiers.

General Skrypczak, I also want to thank you for allowing me the opportunity to take part in this special occasion.