NATO enhanced Forward Presence (eFP) Battlegroup Poland soldiers join with 3-8 CAV Division soldiers from Ft. Hood, Texas in celebration of National Education Day in Bemowo Piskie, Poland. Lt Col Sean Castilla (son-in-law of Rhome and Virginia Hill of Menard), commander of Forward Presence Battlegroup along with commanders from the Romanian and British Army enjoyed a program by Polish students at a primary school in Poland on October 12, 2022.
National Education Day marks the anniversary of the establishment of the National Education Commission in 1773, which was the first ministry of education in Europe and reformed the public education system in Poland.
Principal Gerejczyk said, 'From the very beginning, the school house has been connected to soldiers. The soldiers built this school, and the first children were children of the soldiers.'
'Interacting and being involved with the people of Poland is a reminder to them of our commitment to the people of Poland', Said U.S. Army Lt. Col. Sean Castilla, commander of the eFP and 3-8 CAV commander. 'Staying involved with the community strengthens our resolve to defend our alliances along the Eastern flank. Just as the men and women of the enhanced Forward Presence Battlegroup Poland have dedicated our lives to service, we are inspired by the service and dedication of these teachers who are instructing and teaching the youth of tomorrow, the future leaders of Poland.”
Menard Elementary students recently wrote letters to soldiers, thanking them for their service. The third graders’ letter will be received by Castilla and his group in Poland.