Branch 20 Pays Tribute to Haller’s Army
On June 14, 2026, representatives from SPK Branch No. 20 took part in the annual pilgrimage honouring Haller’s Army in Niagara-on-the-Lake. Branch President Janek Wielgosz and Branch member Steven Graca laid a wreath at the cemetery. Despite the stormy weather, the rain held off long enough for Polonia organizations to pay their respects to the Hallerczycy.
Following Mass at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, the group proceeded to a reception and luncheon at the Polish-Canadian Society hall in St. Catharines. Dignitaries at the event included His Excellency Witold Dzielski, Ambassador of Poland to Canada; Marek Ciesielczuk, Consul General in Toronto; and Defence Attaché Capt. (N) Paweł Podgórny. We were also joined by a military delegation from the Polish 12th Mechanized Division, based in Szczecin, and Jerzy Borcz, Chairman of the Podkarpackie Voivodeship Sejmik. In attendance from Branch 20 were former president Sylwia Maniak, and long-time branch member Mrs. Maryla Gondek with her two grandchildren.
We extend our sincere thanks to the President of Canadian Polish Congress Niagara District, Mrs. Zofia Soja, for organizing the pilgrimage, and to the members of the Lincoln & Welland Regimental Band for the wonderful musical accompaniment.
