Strengthening national security is one of the Polish government’s priorities, and the recent opening of a military unit in Kolno, in the Podlaskie Voivodeship, is evidence of increasing deterrence potential in the eastern part of Poland. The Minister of National Defence, Mariusz Błaszczak, attended the opening ceremony of the first of the units to be formed, which will be part of the 1st Legion Infantry Division.
During the opening ceremony of the new unit in Kolno, Minister Mariusz Blaszczak handed over the national flag to the commander of the flag post, symbolising the important and momentous significance of the event. The new division, which includes a battalion from Kolno, will cover the area between the areas of responsibility of the 16th and 18th Divisions, expanding the influence and presence of the Polish Army in the east of the country.
The formation of the 1st Legion Infantry Division began in September 2022 under a decision by the head of the Ministry of Defence. This strategic initiative aims to increase Poland’s defence and deterrence capabilities in the eastern part of the country. The opening of the unit in Kolno is an important stage in this process.
Minister Mariusz Blaszczak emphasised that the creation of a new division in the Podlaskie Voivodeship is not only a way to strengthen national security, but also an incentive for all citizens to join the Polish Army. His appeals are aimed both at young people who may enter military service and those interested in voluntary basic military service. The Minister also recognised the efforts of soldiers from Szczecin who came to Kolno to conduct exercises and improve their skills.
In his speech, Minister Blaszczak also thanked the local authorities for their cooperation and commitment to the development of joint activities for the security of the country. This synergy between local authorities and the armed forces allows for a strong presence of the Polish Army in eastern Poland.