To the Editor,

I would like to extend a honor to all Polish Americans during October which is declared Polish American heritage Month.

Since 1608, when the first Polish settlers arrived in Jamestown, VA, Polish people have been an important part of America's history and culture.

In 2009, Poles will mark the 70th anniversary of the Invasion of Poland and the Outbreak of WWII.

Why reflect on the past when some say it's best to forget and move on? Sometimes the past is too important to ignore, especially when it involves unspeakable crimes of destruction.

Such importance surrounds the events of the outbreak of WWII and the ruthless onslaught of Hitler and his Nazi regime into Poland on Sept 1, 1939. No other country can claim greater suffering under Nazism than Poland, the land where 6 million civilians were exterminated. Half of these victims were Christians and half were Jews, all were Polish citizens. It is especially important for Polish Americans to recognize the torments endured by Poles during the war years.

For our part, we must honor the Polish people who fought so valiantly to resist the Nazis and those who risked their lives harboring Jews. More Jews were saved in Poland than in any other occupied country.

Throughout the war, extensive underground activities by the Polish people, including the 1944 Warsaw Uprising, hindered Nazi efforts to exterminate the Polish nation and its culture.

As Polish Americans, we have so many outstanding accomplishments of which we can be proud.

General Casimir Pulaski, Father of the American Cavalry, and General Tadeusz Kosciuszko who designed West Point Military Academy, both fought for freedom in two Revolutions-America and Poland.

Yes, indeed you can be proud of your Polish American heritage.

Enjoy your Polka music and culture,

Yvonne Tuchalski,

President of Polish National Alliance Council 50 and Director of Alliance College Alumni Association