Pulaski Days

Celebrating the Legacy of
General Casimir Pulaski - A Revolutionary War Hero

"I came here, where freedom is being defended, to serve it, and to live or die for it," wrote Casimir Pulaski to George Washington in a letter in which he offered his military services to America during the Revolutionary War. He proved true to his word. At age 32, his heroic death at the Battle of Savannah on October 11, 1779 was received with sorrow across the land. General Pulaski's life represents the dedication of countless Americans of Polish and other ethnic origin to the principles of personal liberty and independence, which have always defined the spirit of the United States of America.

Born into a wealthy family in Poland in 1747, Pulaski, as a young
man, fought for freedom from Russia in his homeland until
1771, when he was exiled to France. In Paris he met American
envoy Benjamin Franklin, who influenced him to help Americans
fight for their independence. Washington was so impressed
with Pulaski's abilities during the Battle of Brandywine Creek
that he recommended the Continental Congress appoint Pulaski
as General of the American Cavalry. In 1778, Pulaski organized
an independent corps of cavalry and light infantry known as
the Pulaski Legion. It is reported that he spent $50,000 of his own money to help train and equip his troops.

Pulaski's legacy has been celebrated in an annual Pulaski Day Parade and wreath-laying ceremony in many cities around the country. The October parade is usually organized by non profits associatins to preserve the memory and the legacy of one of America's greatest Revolutionary heroes.