1-5 FA Static Display during Święconka at Torun

TORUN, Poland – U.S. Soldiers assigned to the 1st Battalion, 5th Field Artillery Regiment (1-5 FA), 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, participate in a static display during a Święconka ceremony to build long-lasting relationships with the community here, April 16, 2022.

The Święconka, meaning "the blessing of the Easter baskets," is one of the most enduring and beloved Polish traditions on Holy Saturday during Easter.

"The purpose of the Soldiers being part of this event was to show our allegiance to our host nation," said U.S. Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Alex Gernandt, a targeting officer with the 1-5 FA. The Soldiers and the community had the opportunity to engage, talk, and socialize during their festivities outside of the forward operating site.

During this day, as part of the tradition, families prepare Easter baskets decorated with white serviettes and flowers or willow branches, which typically contain food such as bread, eggs, ham, and sausages, among others. The baskets are taken to a church later to be blessed by a priest.

"The event is about a tradition where families would bring their Easter meals before cooking to the city square, and the bishop would bless the food before cooking it," said Gernandt. "It evolved into a festival with the many agencies, where they set up games and fun things for families to do, along with the blessing itself."

The Marshal's Office of Kujawsko – Pomorskie invited the Soldiers of the 1-5 FA and other groups and agencies, such as the Torun fire marshal, the police department, the Polish 8th Territorial Defense Brigade, and others, to the community event where the Święconka took place.

"As part of our contribution, we brought one of our vehicles to showcase our commitment to the community," said Gernandt. "We allowed the community to put on and see some of our military equipment and go into our vehicle."

Events like the Święconka provide an invaluable forum for the U.S. Army to engage with allies, partners, and communities surrounding the training areas to demonstrate our long-standing relationship.