Edward J. Smagala and family
CHICAGO, ILIn the Dziennik Zwiazkowy dated Jan. 18-20, 2008 in the "Pol-Am History the Legacy of Dachau" I found very interesting reading it was in the English language, as a second generation Pole, I am very proud of my heritage, my parents came to the United States from Poland in the year of 1908 my mother Michaline Kielbasa married my dad Adam Smagala.
My parents raised a family of six boys, and six girls and at NO TIME received help from the U.S Government the only assistance they received was from family members, also all six brothers served in the military.
Stanley Smagala -- U.S Army
Steven Smagala -- U.S Navy Combat Pacific
Edward J. Smagala -- U.S. Army Combat Europe, also recipient of the Silver Star 4 Campaign battle stars, plus other decorations.
Edwin Smagala -- U.S Navy Combat Pacific
Adam Smagala Jr. -- U.S Army Korean War recipient of the Purple Heart
Arthur Smagala -- U.S. Marines stationed in Toyko during the Korean War
Helen Karel, my oldest sister her husband George served in U.S. Navy
Jennie Schuber, her second husband tail gunner B-24 Pacific
Lottie Martinet, her Husband Joseph Marines
Clara Sala, her husband Bruno served in Merchant Marines
Mary Lavang Dennis, her husband was in Reserve U.S. Army
My youngest sister Frances never married at early age was a M/S victim truly just a wonderful person who suffered so much during her short life time.Right after WWII I became a member of the Chicago Police department I joined in Feb. 1946 shortly there after I met my beloved wife Genevieve we married in 11-29-47 we had two girls Pauline D.O.B. 12-08-1949 then Loretta D.O.B. -1951 in 1967 I was elected as President of the Polish American Police Association (P.A.P.A.). I held that title till 1970 as a member of the Police Department I retired after 35 years of service.
In March 22nd 2007, I had the Honor to be recipient of the "Legion of Honor" by the French Government for my Heroic efforts during WWII for Liberating France it is the highest Honor to bestow to four other of my comrades we accepted this Award, and thanking the people of France for presenting this Honor.
From: Edward J. Smagala