DRAWSKO POMORSKIE TRAINING AREA, Poland -- U.S. and Canadian soldiers joined together with the soldiers and citizens of Drawsko Pomorskie to pay tribute to the liberation of Drawsko on its 71st anniversary. Drawsko, which was nearly destroyed during World War II, was liberated on March 4, 1945.
"It was a great ceremony and I am honored and privileged to have been apart of it," said Sgt. Brandon Jackson, native of Shreveport, Louisiana and postal non-commissioned officer in charge, 502nd Human Resources Company, Special Troops Battalion, 1st Calavary Division Sustainment Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division. "The liberation of Drawsko Pomorskie is a significant event in Polish history. I am grateful for any opportunity we to partner with our allies. I feel events like this bring our armies closer together. "
After World War I, there was a significant economic decline in Drawsko, which at the time, was situated near the German border. But then in the 1930s, the Drawsko region became a significant military property. During the World War II, it was a place of severe and crucial battles, and most significantly, a place where the Pomeranian Line was broken.
"It was really great to take part in this great ceremony" said Shardae Brown, a native of Charleston, South Carolina and a postal clerk with the 502nd Human Resources Company, Special Troops Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division Sustainment Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division. "I was humbled to be able to pay my respects on such a significant day in Polish history."
Brown also noted that she had nothing but the utmost respect for the Polish army and the citizens' of Drawsko Pomorskie.
U.S. and Canadian soldiers had the opportunity to pay their respects to fallen Polish soldiers who paid the ultimate sacrifice by placing candles and wreaths on their headstones.
"My hat goes off to the Polish army and the citizens of Drawsko Pomorskie. They did an outstanding job putting together this ceremony," said Brown. "I look forward to the next opportunity to partner with them."
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