Calendar for March 2nd, 2009

Casimir Pulaski Day

Commemorates the birth of Casimir Pulaski, an American Revolutionary War hero known as the Father of the American Cavalry. He was born in Poland on March 6 (previously thought to be March 4), 1747. Pulaski fought against Russian interference with his country. The movement failed, however, and he was forced into exile.

In 1777, Pulaski joined George Washington’s army to help the American colonists gain their independence; he was soon appointed brigadier general of the cavalry. In 1778, he formed a special infantry and cavalry unit, later called the Pulaski Legion. In 1779, his legion went south to aid the American forces there. On October 9, he was wounded during a battle in Savannah, Georgia. Pulaski died from his injuries on October 15 (previously thought to be October 11).

Casimir Pulaski Day is observed on the first Monday in March in Illinois. (There is also a General Pulaski Memorial Day, observed by U.S. presidential proclamation on October 11 each year.)