Casimir Pulaski Day is a legal holiday in Illinois observed on the first Monday of March, it celebrates the birthday of Casimir Pulaski.
Sadly we don’t all get the day off school anymore in this area.

WHO IS CASIMIR PULSASKI?

• Pulaski was a Polish-born revolutionary war hero who was killed defending Savannah, Georgia, in 1779.
• Pulaski Day was established in 1986 because of Illinois’ large Polish-American population.
• He distinguished himself throughout the revolution, most notably when he saved the life of George Washington.
• Pulaski became a general in the Continental Army, created the Pulaski Cavalry Legion and reformed the American cavalry as a whole.

From WIKIPEDIA:

Pulaski is remembered as a hero who fought for independence and freedom in both Poland and the United States. Numerous places and events are named in his honor, and he is commemorated by many works of art. Pulaski is one of only eight people to be awarded honorary United States citizenship. He never married and had no descendants. Despite his fame, there have been uncertainties and controversies surrounding both his place and date of birth and burial.

Watch THE HISTORY GUY give an excellent lesson on the full and honorable life of CP.

Another excellent reference location is www.polishamericancenter.org

Susan Saunders 2/4/19