Mr. Wladyslaw Ortyl, Marshal of the Podkarpackie Voivodeship.

 Mr. Miroslaw Mac, Head of Markowa Commune

Ms. Anna Stróż-Pawłowska,Director of the Museum of Poles Saving Jews

            Dear Sirs,

            National Day of Remembrance for Poles who rescued Jews under German occupation reminds us of our compatriots who, in their desire to save the lives of others, sacrificed their own. The fate of Jozef and Wiktoria Ulma, especially their martyrdom along with their six children, is one of the shocking examples of this extraordinary sacrifice, and at the same time a model of humanity of the noblest test.

            The Samaritans of Markowa, fully aware of the risk they were taking, gave shelter to Jewish families. They knew that such help was punishable by an absolute penalty - the death penalty. They broke Nazi orders, followed the voice of conscience and deeply rooted Christian values.

The celebration of the National Day of Remembrance of Poles who rescued Jews under German occupation is a kind of tribute to all those who, at such a difficult time for Poles and Jews, proved that regardless of circumstances and adversity, it is always worth being human. It is our duty not only to remember them - heroes of the time of the Holocaust, but also the message that flows from their extraordinary attitude.

Therefore, I thank the organizers and participants of the ceremony in Markowa for the dignified commemoration of those who deserved a special place in our national consciousness.

Not being able to participate in this solemn event, I join with you in this symbolic way, honoring the heroes.

                                                                                   Best regards

                                                                                     Marek Kuchciński

The Ulma Museum in Markowa, photo by Marta Olejnik