The bell from the Polish destroyer ORP Błyskawica, a historic naval ship from World War II was sent in a convoy transport from Gdynia to Westminster in London to take part in the historic event organised by Institute of National Remembrance.

ORP Błyskawica is one of Poland’s most famous warships, known for its significant contributions during the war, including its role in defending the British city of Cowes during a German air raid in 1942. Today, the ship is preserved as a museum ship in Gdynia, Poland, serving as a memorial to Poland’s naval heritage. The bell is a symbol of the ship’s service and legacy. The bell from ORP BŁYSKAWICA weighs 12 kg and is 30 cm in diameter.

The bell from ORP Blyskawica marked the opening of the IPN exhibition “Trails of Hope: The Odyssey of Freedom” in the UK Parliament on the 7th of October 2024.

Polish Sue was a partner of IPN in this event and helped with the project including borrowing the Bell from ORP BLYSKAWICA.

We are very proud we could help IPN, ORP BLYSKAWICA is an important symbol for Poland and Britain

said Iwona Golińska – President Polish Sue.

The residents of the Isle of Wight remember very well that the Polish destroyer ORP Błyskawica saved the towns of Cowes and East Cowes from the attack of the German Luftwaffe in May 1942. Since then, annual ceremonies have been held on the island to pay tribute to the heroic Poles and to preserve their extraordinary courage in the memory of future generations.

We spoke about the historical importance of Orp Blyskawica – see link below:

Polish Sue organises annual celebrations of this event called ORP BŁYSKAWICA DAYS.