Today, Major Jakub Nowakowski, one of the last surviving soldiers of the legendary “Zośka” Battalion, celebrates his 100th birthday. Known by his codename “Tomek,” he played a crucial role in Poland’s resistance during World War II.
A Courageous Fighter in the Warsaw Uprising
During the Nazi occupation (1939-1944), Major Nowakowski served in the Kedyw of the Home Army’s High Command, specifically in the “Broda 53” Diversion Brigade, part of the “Zośka” Battalion. In the Warsaw Uprising, due to operational challenges, he fought with the “Żniwiarz” Group on Warsaw’s Żoliborz district. He participated in intense battles near the Opel factory and Gdański Train Station, where he sustained injuries.
Enduring the Horrors of War
Recalling the harrowing moments of the uprising, Major Nowakowski described a bombing raid by German “Stukas” as his most terrifying experience. “The fear of being buried alive in the basement during the bombing was overwhelming,” he said, reflecting on the chaos and destruction that marked the uprising.
A Living Testament to History
After the Warsaw Uprising, Major Nowakowski was taken as a prisoner of war to Germany. Today, his remarkable life serves as a testament to courage, resilience, and unwavering dedication to freedom.
Dziś 100 urodziny obchodzi Pan Major Jakub Tomasz Nowakowski. Jeden z ostatnich żołnierzy „Zośki”. Niech żyje nam! 200 lat! pic.twitter.com/bB40sG0V1Q
— PL1918 (@PL1918) December 4, 2024