In 1929, Congress passed a resolution designating October 11th as General Pulaski Memorial Day. Each year, a new presidential proclamation renews the resolution (Public Resolution 16 of 1929).
The day is set aside in the United States to recognize Casimir Pulaski, a Polish immigrant. Over two centuries ago, he joined the Continental Army and soon rose in the ranks to Brigadier General.
Alongside General George Washington, he built a legacy that included raising an arm of the colonial military as yet undeveloped—the cavalry. As such, he became known as the father of the American cavalry.
While only 15 years old, Pulaski earned battle experience when his homeland of Poland and Russia went to war. He later immigrated to the British Colonies after meeting Benjamin Franklin in Paris. It was Pulaski’s experience on the battlefield and his perseverance that gained General Washington’s trust. However, Pulaski would not see the end of the war. Injured in battle, he died of wounds suffered at the Siege of Savannah on October 9, 1779. General Pulaski died a few days later on October 11th.