Silver Cross of the War Order of the Virtuti Militari, numbered 9021 (Cross awarded by the production of Krupski Matulewicz, Warsaw). The cross was awarded to Lancer Stanislaw Jablonski of the famous 10th Armored Cavalry Brigade for fighting in France in 1940. It is one of only 13 awards of the Cross of Virtuti Militari to the 10th Armored Cavalry Brigade .
History of heroism - Stanislaw Jablonski
Stanislaw Jablonski, a private of the 2nd Squadron of the Motor Cavalry Squadron, took part in the fighting as part of the 1st Row of the 10th Armored Cavalry Brigade. He was about 17 years old, but there is no further information on his personal details.
During the night battle for Montbard on the night of June 16-17, 1940, he was on duty in a team insuring the right wing of the Polish positions.
The team unexpectedly encountered German troops. When the team's commander fell seriously wounded, lancer Jablonski and lancer Gaj immediately threw themselves into a counterattack, inspiring the remaining soldiers to engage in hand-to-hand combat with the enemy.
During the clash, Jablonski was mortally wounded, but despite his injuries he continued to cheer his comrades into battle.
Moments before his death, fully aware of his fate, he uttered his last words:
"Report to the commander that I died like a soldier."
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Significance and commemoration
Stanislaw Jablonski's attitude exemplifies the highest heroism, courage and fidelity to the military oath. His deed is part of the long tradition of the Polish soldier, who does not hesitate to give his life in defense of the fatherland.
Thanks to historical documentation found at the Gen. Sikorski Polish Institute in London, his heroic struggle has been immortalized, and he will forever remain one of those who, with their attitude, deserved to be called a true hero.
Condition shown in the photos
