On September 1, 1939, at 4:48 AM, the German battleship Schleswig-Holstein began shelling the Military Transit Depot at Westerplatte, marking the symbolic start of World War II. Polish soldiers, despite being vastly outnumbered, repelled superior enemy forces for seven days. The defense of Westerplatte became not only a symbol of Polish resistance but also an example of steadfastness and heroism that inspired and continues to inspire subsequent generations of Poles.

"Today, on the 85th anniversary of the Nazi German attack on Poland, we are here to pay tribute to the heroes who defended our homeland and to remind the world of their sacrifice,"
said the Prime Minister.

The Prime Minister also remembered Major Henryk Sucharski, the commander of Westerplatte's defense, and other soldiers who, despite overwhelming odds, showed incredible bravery and sacrifice.

"Without heroes like them, no nation can survive,"
added the head of government.

Current generations have the duty to remember those who gave their lives for Poland's freedom and independence.

During the ceremony, the Prime Minister also stressed that Poland has learned from the tragic events of World War II and is now developing one of the most modern armies in Europe. Investments in the armed forces, both in modern equipment and in the professionalism of Polish soldiers, aim to ensure that Poland will never again have to face an enemy alone.

"Honoring heroes is also a permanent foundation for our security. Today, we are building the most modern army in Europe. Poland is investing with extraordinary effort and sacrifice in its defensive power. This is beginning to be recognized by the whole world, all of Europe,"
emphasized Prime Minister D. Tusk.

Ensuring the safety of Polish men and women is one of the current government's priorities. In 2025, defense spending will reach a record 186.6 billion PLN, which is 28.6 billion PLN more than this year. Planned expenditures for the Polish military, including salaries for professional soldiers, will amount to 4.7% of GDP.

Contemporary threats require not only readiness to defend but also active building of international alliances. Poland aims to become a pillar of stability and security in Europe. Such a stance is essential to effectively protect our country against contemporary threats, which, unfortunately, are becoming increasingly real.

The Prime Minister reminded that the lesson from Westerplatte and World War II is not an abstraction but a living history, traces of which are still visible in every Polish city.

"Westerplatte is not only a symbol of the past but also a warning for the future – we cannot allow ourselves to be isolated, we must act together, both within NATO and as a united Europe,"
said the Prime Minister.

Westerplatte is not only a place of historical significance but also a symbolic reminder that Poland must never remain alone in the face of threats. We must learn from the tragic events of World War II and build lasting international alliances that will ensure our homeland's security.

"Today we must say 'never again alone.' History must not repeat itself, with Poland facing aggression alone. 'Never again alone' – this is our commitment to permanently build the North Atlantic Alliance and unite Europe also in defense of our homeland and our civilization,"
stressed the head of government.

In today's world, international cooperation is a key element in ensuring peace and stability, which Westerplatte has symbolized for years.

Westerplatte, as a place that has permanently entered the history of Poland and the world, remains a symbol of the continuity of national memory. The Prime Minister noted that remembering the heroes of Westerplatte and all who fought during World War II is not only a tribute to the past but also a commitment to action for the future – for the security of future generations of Poles.

The ceremonies at Westerplatte concluded with the laying of wreaths at the Monument of the Defenders of the Coast, where tribute was paid to all who fought and died for Poland's freedom and independence.

"Remembering the heroes is the foundation of our future, reminding us of our responsibility for the fate of our homeland,"
summarized Prime Minister Donald Tusk.

Our responsibility is not only to preserve memory but, most importantly, to take actions aimed at building a safe, free, and independent Poland. Poland should not sacrifice the lives of its heroes.