Pulaski Post No. 562; The American LegionOrganize Polish-American veterans residing in Los Angeles
by Gene Harubin Zygmont
Pulaski Post No. 562 of the American Legion has been in existence since 1939, when Edwin K. Lipinski began organizing Polish-American veterans residing in Los Angeles. The organizers chose General Casimir Pulaski, a hero of the American Revolution, as their inspiration and obtained a charter from the American Legion, Department of California. Edwin K. Lipinski was elected as its first Commander.
The Installation and Inaugural Ball were held on May 27,1939, at the Polish Auditorium, 4200 Avalon Blvd., Los Angeles. It was a festive occasion, with a 10 piece orchestra providing dance music and the admission was 35 cents.
Commemorative observances in honor of General Pulaski were begun under the leadership of Frank Harasick in 1946. To commemorate the bicentennial of Pulaski's birth (March 6, 1947), a celebration was staged on Sunday, March 9, 1947, on the grounds of the Our Lady of the Bright Mount Church. Frank Harasick chaired the event, which began with a semi-military High Mass and followed by a program which included an address by John T. Lechner, B.D., L.L.D., Executive Director, American Educational League. The Polish and American anthems and a song by Stanislaw Moniuszko were sung by the Chopin Choir. Another notable celebration was held on October 5, 1952 at Patriotic Hall to honor Pulaski Day. The program included addresses by the Hon. Lech T. Niemo, Former Consul of the Republic of Poland and the Hon. Arthur Bliss Lane, former U.S. Ambassador to Poland. The Pulaski Post also actively participated in Pulaski Day programs organized by other Polish American organizations.
The Post was recognized as a leading and active unit by the election of one of its members, Edmund A. Partyka, as Commander of the 23rd District Department of California, American Legion.
While its members have aged a bit, Pulaski Post No. 562 is stiII a vital and active link in the American Legion chain and looks forward to represent and serve for the benefit of United States veterans of all wars. Edmund A. Partyka serves as the current commander.
From: Polish Americans in California, vol. II. National Center for Urban Ethnic Affairs & Polish American Historical Association. California 1995.