80th Anniversary of Piłsudski’s Death Commemorated at Vilnius’ Rasos Cemetery

On 12 May at Vilnius’ Rasos Cemetery, a wreath-laying ceremony at the Mother and the Heart of Son mausoleum  took place to commemorate the 80th  death anniversary of Marshal Józef Piłsudski.

“Today is the death anniversary of Marshal Józef Piłsudski, and we cannot imagine not being here, at this historic and wonderful Rasos Cemetery, and not joining those who hold Marshal deep in their hearts” – said Dr. Zbigniew Włosowicz, Deputy Head of the National Security Bureau.

Jarosław Czubiński, Ambassador of the Republic of Poland to Lithuania, emphasized that the figure of Józef Piłsudski is important not only for Poles, but also for Europe and even for the whole world.

“The question what significance Marshal Piłsudski has for Poland and Poles is a fundamental one, which, I believe, everyone who knows the history of this man might ask oneself. Undoubtedly, Marshal is a global figure by reason of his achievements. We remember what Poland, Europe and the whole world are indebted to him for. It is for the years 1918, 1919, 1920, and the successive years. After all, he was one of the creators of the European system of that time” – said Jarosław Czubińki.

“We, the citizens of today’s Vilnius, remember him as a man who bound his life, thoughts, and heart with this city. He referred to it as the most precious one. Therefore, why we have gathered here, in this sacred place for Poles, is a completely obvious thing. Some would describe it a noble one, for we remember, but, at at the same time, a common one, as Marshal is often visited here at the Rasos cemetery in Vilnius. I come here almost every day – stressed the Ambassador.

An elderly citizen of Vilnius, Piot Bumbul, has been visiting the Rasos Cemetery nearly every day for 80 years. He feels the duty.

“We cannot forget about Piłsudki, for he was a great man – a hero from back 80 years ago and still the one today!” he said.