The opening of the Polish Institute of National Remembrance (IPN) exhibition “Trails of Hope: The Odyssey of Freedom” marked this important anniversary in the history of the Polish Navy.
On 10 October 2026, a commemorative event marking the 90th anniversary of the naming and christening of one of Poland’s most celebrated warships, ORP “Błyskawica”, was held at the Household Cavalry Museum in London.
The event was jointly organised by the Institute of National Remembrance (IPN) and the Polish Sue Association, which is also celebrating the tenth anniversary of its foundation in 2026.
The occasion brought together the history of the Polish Navy, the memory of Polish heroes of the Second World War, education for younger generations, and the enduring friendship between Poland and the United Kingdom.
Distinguished guests from the Polish Embassy, British public life and the Polish community
The guest of honour was Countess Katarzyna Raczyńska, daughter of Count Edward Raczyński, President of the Republic of Poland in Exile from 1979 to 1986, and Countess Cecylia Raczyńska, godmother of ORP “Błyskawica”.
Her presence gave the occasion a particularly personal and moving dimension, recalling a family whose history is inseparably linked with Polish diplomacy and the story of the warship.
Guests also included British veterans, while members of the Household Cavalry stood guard at the museum entrance.
Nicola Ayrton-Guest, Director of the Household Cavalry Museum, formally welcomed the guests.
In her address, she highlighted the long-standing friendship and close cooperation between the British and Polish nations.
The event was also attended by representatives of British local government, led by Councillor Judy Saida, Mayor of the London Borough of Merton.
The Council of Polonia and Poles Abroad under the President of the Republic of Poland was represented by its Secretary, Iwona Golińska, accompanied by Council member Bartosz Piasecki.
Representatives of the Embassy of the Republic of Poland in London included Clarinda Calma, as well as members of the Polish Defence Attaché’s Office, led by Defence Attaché Colonel Rafał Nowak.
The event attracted numerous representatives of the Polish community, including members of Ognisko Polskie, represented by its President, Piotr Michalik.
Special guests included the families of sailors whose lives were connected with the history of ORP “Błyskawica” and the Polish Navy. Rebecca Langridge attended with her daughter, Zoe Marie Langridge. Rebecca’s grandfather, Petty Officer Henryk Jach, served as a gunner aboard “Błyskawica” during the Second World War and took part in the defence of Cowes in 1942. Henryk Jach served in the Polish Navy for more than seven years, during the crucial wartime period from 1940 to 1947.
Directors and teachers from Polish community schools, young people and many enthusiasts of Polish history also joined the celebrations.
“Sail the seas and oceans” – the christening of ORP “Błyskawica”
The central theme of the celebrations was the 90th anniversary of the launch and christening of ORP “Błyskawica”. The ceremony took place on 1 October 1936 at the J. Samuel White & Co. Ltd. shipyard in Cowes, on the Isle of Wight. Cecylia Raczyńska became the godmother of the modern destroyer.
“On 1 October 1936, 90 years ago, at the J. Samuel White & Co. Ltd. shipyard in Cowes, on the Isle of Wight — and here I look with gratitude and emotion towards Countess Katarzyna Raczyńska — her mother, Cecylia Raczyńska, uttered the solemn words, ‘Sail the seas and oceans’. She became the godmother of the modern destroyer ‘Błyskawica’, welcoming her into the Polish Navy, where she joined her sister ship, ‘Grom’,” said Dr hab. Karol Polejowski, Deputy President of the Institute of National Remembrance.
Today, ORP “Błyskawica”, moored in the port of Gdynia, is the oldest surviving Second World War veteran destroyer.
She remains a floating monument to Polish courage, glory and the unwavering pursuit of freedom, as well as a symbol of faithful service under the white-and-red Polish naval ensign.
Letter from the President of the Republic of Poland
A letter from the President of the Republic of Poland, Karol Nawrocki, was addressed to the participants of the commemorations.
The letter was signed by Agnieszka Jędrzak, Undersecretary of State at the Chancellery of the President of the Republic of Poland.
On behalf of the President and Minister Jędrzak, the letter was read aloud by Iwona Golińska, President of the Polish Sue Association and Secretary of the Council of Polonia and Poles Abroad under the President of the Republic of Poland.
The message emphasised that ORP “Błyskawica” is one of the most important symbols of Polish courage, loyalty to allies and service in the cause of freedom.
“Today, ORP ‘Błyskawica’ is a floating monument to Polish courage, glory and the unwavering pursuit of freedom, as well as a symbol of faithful service under the white-and-red Polish naval ensign. Moored in the port of Gdynia, the vessel is the oldest surviving veteran destroyer from that period and the only Allied warship to have fought actively and continuously alongside the Royal Navy from the first day of the war to the last,” the letter stated.
The letter also highlighted the place of ORP “Błyskawica” in the shared heritage of Poland and the United Kingdom. The ship symbolises the sacrifices made by Polish sailors and the bonds forged between the two nations during some of the most difficult moments of the twentieth century.
Through the letter delivered on behalf of the President by Minister Agnieszka Jędrzak, the President expressed his appreciation to the organisers and to the Polish Sue Association for their work in preserving historical memory, educating younger generations and strengthening Polish-British friendship.
Message from the Commanding Officer of ORP “Błyskawica”
A letter from the commanding officer of ORP “Błyskawica”, Lieutenant Commander Paweł Ogórek, was sent to the participants on this important occassion.
In his message, the commanding officer emphasised that the ship’s present-day crew considers itself the heir to the traditions of the sailors who served aboard “Błyskawica” during the war.
His letter expressed appreciation for the organisers and for everyone who continues to preserve the memory of the ship and her crew.
Lieutenant Commander Ogórek also recalled that the name “Błyskawica” carries an enduring responsibility to uphold the values of honour, courage, accountability and readiness to serve.
His message connected the experiences of the pre-war and wartime crews with the mission of the ship today. It demonstrated that the traditions of ORP “Błyskawica” are not merely a matter of historical remembrance, but remain alive and are passed on to successive generations of sailors.
The Household Cavalry Museum – history brought to life
The guests were welcomed by the Director of the Household Cavalry Museum, who subsequently guided them through the museum, introducing them to the history of one of Britain’s most recognisable military formations.
The museum is housed in a building associated with the British Household Cavalry. Its distinctive character lies in the opportunity to see not only historical exhibits, but also aspects of the everyday life of a military unit that continues to serve today.
Participants were able to see the royal stables, learn about the traditions of the Household Cavalry and examine the soldiers’ equipment and uniforms at close quarters. They also had the opportunity to try on selected historical items of clothing, including elements of cavalry uniform, and view military equipment and armour.
Particular interest was generated by the opportunity to learn about the traditions surrounding the British monarch’s official birthday celebrations, including the famous Trooping the Colour parade, traditionally held in June.
This part of the programme enabled participants to experience history in a direct and engaging way while gaining a deeper understanding of the importance of military traditions in British culture.
“Trails of Hope: The Odyssey of Freedom” exhibition
The wartime story of ORP “Błyskawica” forms an important chapter in the history of Poland during the Second World War. These experiences are part of the broader narrative presented in the Institute of National Remembrance exhibition, “Trails of Hope: The Odyssey of Freedom”, which was displayed during the London visit.
The exhibition recalls the journeys of Poles who found themselves outside their homeland following the outbreak of war and subsequently fought for the freedom of Poland and other nations on numerous fronts. The story of ORP “Błyskawica” forms an integral part of this account, illustrating unwavering service, courage and loyalty to the cause of independence.
The exhibition opening enriched the commemorative programme by placing the history of the Polish warship within the wider context of the wartime experiences of the Polish nation.
The display panels and historical materials provided a starting point for discussions about our responsibility to preserve historical memory and the significance of Poland’s military contribution to the liberation of Europe.
The Żywiec ensemble brings Polish folklore and national colours to the celebrations
The Żywiec folk ensemble provided a distinctive cultural dimension to the event, enhancing the occasion with beautiful traditional Polish costumes.
Their presence in the historic surroundings of the London museum highlighted the richness of Polish culture and tradition, creating a special bridge between Poland’s national heritage and its British setting.
The colourful costumes, dedication to tradition and enthusiasm of the performers served as a reminder that preserving national memory means more than recounting the past. It also means passing on language, culture and identity to younger generations.
The defence of Cowes – a defining chapter in the wartime history of the ship
One of the most significant episodes in the history of ORP “Błyskawica” was the defence of Cowes during the German air raid on the night of 4–5 May 1942.
Under the command of Commander Wojciech Francki, the ship’s crew delivered intensive anti-aircraft fire, helping to defend the town and its inhabitants.
This action became a lasting symbol of the courage of Polish sailors and their commitment to defending their British ally.
The memory of the ship is also the memory of the men who, far from their homeland, remained faithful to their oath and fought for the freedom of Poland and Europe.
“Błyskawica – Hero of the Sea”: the second drawing competition for children attending Polish community schools
The highlight of the event was the presentation of awards to the winners of the second edition of the children’s and young people’s competition, “Błyskawica – Hero of the Sea”, dedicated to ORP “Błyskawica” and the history of Polish sailors.
Organised by the Polish Sue Association, the competition encourages young participants to explore history through creativity, independent research and artistic interpretations of events from the past.
The second edition attracted considerable interest once again.
For the organisers, it is particularly important that the history of the Polish Navy should inspire children and young people growing up in both Polish and British environments.
Participants received commemorative medals and certificates from the organisers.
The prizes were personally presented by Dr hab. Karol Polejowski, Deputy President of the Institute of National Remembrance, who emphasised the importance of historical education and fostering a lasting connection between younger generations and their national heritage.
For the young winners, taking part in a ceremony at such a remarkable venue was not only an honour, but also an opportunity to encounter history at first hand and discover that the memory of national heroes can remain alive far beyond Poland’s borders.
Ten years of the Polish Sue Association – remembrance, education and Polish-British friendship
This year’s celebrations were especially significant for the Polish Sue Association, which is marking ten years of voluntary, pro bono work.
Founded in London in 2016, the Association was established in memory of Sue Ryder, Lady Ryder of Warsaw, the British humanitarian who devoted her life to helping victims of war and people in need and who loved Poland.
Her legacy remains a powerful symbol of solidarity, humanity and the extraordinary ties connecting Poland and the United Kingdom.
Over the past decade, the Polish Sue Association has undertaken initiatives focused on history, education, national remembrance and the engagement of younger generations.
Its projects, competitions, meetings and commemorative events demonstrate that Polish heritage can be presented in ways that are accessible and engaging for British audiences as well as the Polish community.
The ORP “Błyskawica” Days celebrations brought these values together naturally through history, intergenerational dialogue, education and international cooperation.
This was the fourth edition of ORP “Błyskawica” Days, once again bringing together representatives of state institutions, the Polish community, the armed forces, cultural organisations and educational institutions.
Honoring Polish Soldiers
During his visit to London, Dr. Karol Polejowski, Deputy President of the Institute of National Remembrance (IPN), laid flowers at the grave of Admiral Jerzy Świrski, who is buried at Brompton Cemetery.
A report on the event is available at the following link:
Shared remembrance – a shared future
The ceremony at the Household Cavalry Museum served as a reminder that the histories of Poland and the United Kingdom are intertwined through shared experiences, the struggle for freedom and the personal stories of thousands of servicemen and their families.
The presence of representatives of the Polish Embassy, British local government, the Polish community, Countess Katarzyna Raczyńska, the Institute of National Remembrance and the young competition participants created a unique space for dialogue between different generations of the Polish diaspora.
The letter from the President of the Republic of Poland, the message from the commanding officer of ORP “Błyskawica”, the “Trails of Hope: The Odyssey of Freedom” exhibition and the tribute paid at the graves of Polish servicemen all underlined that preserving the memory of the ship is a shared responsibility of the state, the armed forces, Polish community organisations and future generations.
ORP “Błyskawica” remains a symbol of loyalty, courage and responsibility. The work of the Polish Sue Association demonstrates how these values can be passed on through education, culture and collective action.
Ninety years of ORP “Błyskawica” and ten years of the Polish Sue Association are two anniversaries united by a common purpose: to remember the past in order to build a future founded on truth, respect and Polish-British friendship.
Polish Sue Association – preserving the memory that unites generations and nations.
Photographs: IPN and Polish Sue Association.
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