Ask the Scholar
Document scope · 1 page
Scholar
Ask about this object, its catalog metadata, its source description, or the page inventory.
For page-specific OCR and visual context, open one of the page chats.
Scholar Source Context
Document identity
localId
415892689
label
[Ignace Jan Paderewski, 11/11/88]
core
doc
dtoType
document
citationUrl
pageCount
1
Source metadata
id
415892689
contentType
document
title
[Ignace Jan Paderewski, 11/11/88]
citationUrl
identifierLocal
13897-009
collections
Records of the White House Office of Speechwriting (George H. W. Bush Administration)
Tony Snow Subject Files
imageCount
1
hasImages
yes
source
import
hasTranscription
no
Source extras
naId
415892689
levelOfDescription
fileUnit
recordType
description
ocrSource
nara-archive
Single page context
seq
1
pageIndex
0
type
document
mediaId
78c5042cc2963978
ocrText
Originally Processed With FOIA(s):
foia Number:
S
FOIA
MARKER
This is not a textual record. This is used as an
administrative marker by the George Bush Presidential
Library Staff.
Record Group/Collection:
George H.W. Bush Presidential Records
Collection/Office of Origin:
Speechwriting, White House Office of
Series:
Snow, Tony, Files
Subseries:
Subject File, 1988-1993
OA/ID Number:
13897
Folder ID Number:
13897-009
Folder Title:
[Ignace Jan Paderewski, 11/11/88]
Stack:
Row:
Section:
Shelf:
Position:
G
18
29
2
5
RECENT VISITS TO THE RESTING PLACE OF
IGNACE JAN PADEREWSKI
BY POLISH MEMBERS OF GOVERNMENT
11 November 1988:
The Honorable Jan Kinast, Polish Ambassador to the United States, placed
a wreath at the resting place of Ignace Jan Paderewski. He also presented a
medallion, honoring Paderewski, for display in the Memorial Display Room.
12 November 1987:
The Honorable Jan Kinast, Polish Ambassador to the United States, placed
a wreath at the resting place of Ignace Jan Paderewski.
2 June 1987:
The President of the Polish Parliament, Mr Roman Malinowski, placed a wreath
at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier during an Army Honor Wreath Ceremony.
Following the ceremony Mr Malinowski placed a wreath at the resting place of
Ignace Jan Paderewski.
ANNUAL CEREMONY
The Polish Legion of American Veterans conducts a Pilgrimage to the resting
place of Ignace Jan Paderewski in April of each year.
524-5842 MR. Costanzo /Supan tendent auc.
695-3175 F/o Johnson
Rec'd June 20,1989
BY DIRECT WIRE FROM
CLASS OF SERVICE
1223
SYMBOLS
This is a full-rate
WESTERN
DL Day Letter
Telegram or Cable-
NT Overnight Telegram
gram unless its de-
ferred character is In-
symbol above or pre-
UNION
LC-Deferred Cable
dicated by a suitable
NLT-Cable Night Letter
ceding the address.
R. B. WHITE
NEWCOMB CARLTON
J. c. WILLEVER
1 Ship Radiogram
PRESIDENT
CHAIRMAN OF THE BOARD
FIRST VICE-PRESIDENT
The filing time shown in the date line on telegrame and dav letters is STAND
eipt is STANDARD TIME at point of destination
1B87 TWS PAID 3=WASHINGTON DC JUL 3 1239P
COL MORTIMER=
:ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY ARLINGTON VIR=
THE POLISH EMBASSY WOULD APPRECIATE IT IF YOU
ALLOW NEWS PHOTOGRAPHERS AND CAMERAMEN ON THE GROUNDS OF
ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY DRUING THE FUNERAL CEREMONY
IGNACY JAN PADEREWSKI SATURDAY JULY FIFTH=
JAN DROHOJOWSKI COUNSELOR OF EMBASSY.
117P
55 1HH-1941
No.
11144
DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH OF THE CITY OF NEW YORK
This permit must be handed to
the Keeper of the Cemetery or
BURIAL-CREMATION-TRANSPORTATION PERMIT
Crematory by the Funeral Director
in charge of the funeral.
New York,
194
The Certificate of Death having been furnished this as the Code, permission
hereby
who to remove died at the remains of Jan 101W.57 Aged Yrs.
given to J I gnacy indleack tq Padgreurk of Department, 10 44 required Gon by La Am Sanitary
M₀.
Borough of
19 П. from 100
Ma
Day
City of New York, on
for Burial* at
Arlergton 6/29 Nat. an
on
7/5
194
Fr. Mayns. va
SIGNAM Registrar of Records.
M.I
. Cross out one.
Per
CONFIDENTIAL
EXECUTIVE OFFICE
147
ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY
FORT MYER, VIRGINIA.
els
CONFIDENTIAL
No.
4 February 1947
Subject:
Disposition of the remains of
Ignace Jan Paderewski, former President
of the Council of Ministers of Poland
TO:
The Commanding General,
Military District of Washington,
Room 58 518 The Pentagon,
Washington 25 D.C.
1.
Ignace Jan Paderewski, former President of the
Council of Ministers of Poland, died in New York on June 29, 1941.
2.
On Saturday, July 5, 1941, by authority of the
Secretary of War, mass and services were held in the Amphitheater
and the remains, with full honors, were placed in the Mast of the
Maine vault to remain there until the end of the war. The body is
still being held in the Maine vault.
3.
The war having ended, it is believed steps should be
taken to return the body to Poland, or make other disposition for
interment, thus ending the temporary custody of the body by the
Arlington National Cemetery.
4.
Information and advice are requested.
WILLIAMSON,
What response
Colonel, U.S. Army,
Officer in Charge
ded The request
receive - or
file at are N.C.?
CONFIDENTIAL
downgrados
STOWARZYSZENIE WETERANÓW ARMJI POLSKIEJ W AMERYCE
PLACÓWKA
Nr. 6-ty
AME
The Polish Army Veterans Association of America
POST
No. 6
3794 EAST 71st STREET
CLEVELAND, OHIO
July 3, 1947.
The Superintendent,
Arlington National Cemetery,
Arlington, Va.
Dear Sir:
At a recent convention of the Polish Army Veterans Ass'n,
District No. 9, held in Youngstown, Ohio, a motion was made to the
effect that the newly el cted officers endeavor to secure the
transfer of the body of the 13 te Ignace Jan Paderewski from the
Maine Memorial, where it has been temporarily interred, to the
in
Krakow?
Wawel Castle in Poland - the burial place of the great men of Poland.
Paderewski was our benefactor, hence, we are naturally
interested in that his body be interred among the heroes and men
of letters of his country.
The question which has arisen and which might have some
bearing upon our future action is, who has made the arrangements
for the interment of Paderewski's body in the Arlington National
Cemetery and whether there are any reasons, why the body of Pade-
rewski should not be transported to Poland at this time.
May I expect an early reply.
Yours very truly,
John C. Konopka
Adjutant
JCK
DAAG-CAM
29 AUG 1975
MEMORANDUM FOR: ASSISTANT SECRETARY 07 THE ARMY (CIVIL WORKS)
SUBJECT: Historical Background Material Relating to the Entombment of
the Remains of Ignace Jan Paderewski in Arlington National
Cemetery
1. Ignace Jan Paderewski (1360-1941), Polish pianist, composer and
statesman, was born on November 18, 1860 at Kurylowka, Russian Podolia.
He studied music at Warsaw, Berlin, and Vienna. He made his first public
appearance in Vienna in 1887, in Paris in 1859, and in London in 1890.
His brilliant playing created a furor which went to extravagant lengths,
and his triumphs were repeated in America in 1891. In 1889, Paderewski
married Baroness de Rosen, and after 1900 appeared very little in public
until 1920-23 when he gave recitals in England and in America as well as
on the continent. Paderewski's success as a pianist all over the world
never caused him to forget his own country. In 1910 on the 500th
anniversary of the victory of Grunwald over the Teutonic Knights, he
presented a memorial, which was unveiled at Cracov.
2. When World War I broke out in 1914 Paderewski dedicated himself
heart and soul to his country's service. In 1915 he vent to the United
States, where he remained nearly four years, giving numerous concerts and
championing the cause of Poland. He collected enormous sums of money and
created a powerful pro-Polish movement in the United States. The value of
his propegandist work was realized when on January 22, 1917 President
Woodrow Wilson alluded to a "united, independent, and autonomous Poland."
Up to 1918 Paderewski guided the political and military destinies of
4,000,000 Poles in the United States.
3. After the victory of the Allies in World Uar I Paderewski visited
London and proceeded to Poland by sea in the company of a British mission,
disembarking at Danzig on December 24, 1913. On reaching Warsaw he
declared himself independent of all political parties, and after difficult
negotiations succeeded on January 17, 1919 in forming 3 coalition govern-
ment of which he became prime minister as well as minister of foreign
affairs. Paderewski went to Paris on April 6, 1919 as Poland's first
delegate to the Paris Peace Conference, On two different occasions the
SUBJECT: Historical Background Material Relating to the Entombment
of the Remains of Ignace Jan Paderewski in Arlington National
Cemetery
2 9 AUG 1975
Polish parliament renewed its vote of confidence in him and expressed the
gratitude of the country. But, as it vas inpossible to make a national
union a reality and, above all, to conclude Deace with the Soviet govern-
ment, in view of the violent opposition of the military party, Paderewski
resigned his government offices on November 27, 1919.
4. Paderewski abandoned his political career in February 1921 and retired
to his California estate, returning afterward to resume his musical career.
Later he established his home at Morges, Svitzerland. When Germany attacked
Poland in 1939 and President I. Mosciki hastened to Roumania, Paderewski
was asked to succeed him, but declined because of ill health. In January
1940, he became president of the new Polish parliament in exile. In
December 1940, he went to the United States and died in New York City on
June 29, 1941.
5. Upon receipt of word of Paderewski's death, President Franklin D.
Roosevelt called the State Department from his Hyde Park home and asked
that the Department inform Paderewski's family and officials of the Polish
embassy that Paderewski's body could be given a temporary resting place in
the vault of the Mast of the Maine Monument in Arlington National Cemetery.
At that time President Roosevelt used the phrase He may lie there until
Poland is frez."
6. Paderewski's body was brought to Washington from New York to lie in
state st the Polish embassy on Sixteenth Street, N. W., the embassy then
being under control of the Polish Government in exile. Following the lying
in state at the embassy, Paderewski's body vas taken to Arlington National
Cemetery for entombment in the vault of the Mast of the Maine Monument in
Section 24 of the cemetery. The records of Arlinston National Cemetery
show the following notation concerning the entombment:
MEMORIAL
IGNACE JAN PADERENSKI
On Saturday, July 5, 1941 with full military honors.
Remains were placed in the Mast of the Maine vault to remain
until the end of the war.
Remains are still held in the vault.
7. At the time of Mr. Paderewski's death his native Poland vas under enemy
control of the Nazi forces of Adolf Hitler and the forces of the Soviet
Union then allied with Hitler's Germany. The United States was not at that
time an acknowledged belligerent in the European War. The attack on Pearl
Harbor, 7 December 1941, was some months in the future. However, there
a considerable amount of public coinion and sentiment those
FRED
Willen
conquared
by
the
2
SUBJECT: Historical Background Material Relating to the Entombeent
of the Remains of Ignace Jan Paderewski in Arlington National
Cemetery
29 AUG 1975
German blitzkreig shortly after the caset of hostilities in September 1939
was well known to the people of the United States. President Roosevelt,
no doubt, was comizant of these circumstances. Also, he had served as
Assistant Secretary of the Have under President Wilson during Horld Ma: I
and knew of the political activities and influence of Mr. Paderewski
during World War I and the post war years of that conflict. All of these
factors, in all probability, pay have motivated President Roosavelt in
his decision to offer the vault of the Mast of the Maine Momment at
Arlington National Cemetery as a resting place for the remains of Ignaee
Jan Paderevski.
8. Mr. Paderewski was not eligible for below ground interment in Arlington
National Cemetery, or In any other national cametery. At no time during his
long life (81 years) had he served to the armed forces of the United States
or in the armed forces of a nation allied with the United States in World
War I or World Ver II.
9. During the years since July 5, 1941 the entombeent of the remains of
Paderwski within the vault of the Mast of the Haine Monument at Arlington
National Cenetery vas cuite generally & matter of public knowledge. but
there vas no marking whatsoever within the grounds of the cemetery to
indicate the cristance of such an entombnent. Howaver, among records
currently available there is record of at least one source of correscond-
ence relation to marking of the place of enternment of Innace Jan
Paderewski. Under date of 12 January 1960 a letter vas received from a
Mr. Francis Dobrovski of Boston, Massachusetts requesting that the National
Medical and Dental Association of America be permitted to place 3 marker or
a plaqua in honor of the late Irnace Jan Paderswski in an srea near the
Tone of the Unknowns in Arlinaton National Cenetery. This request vas
denied in a letter to Mr. Debrowski under date of 20 January 1960. A
copy of cited letter to Mr. Dobrowski is inclosed (Inclosure 1).
10. In July 1962, the matter of public identification of Paderewski's
place of entombeent in Arlington National Censtery was gives further and
ultimately successful impetus by an article which specared in the Sunday.
July 15 edition of the Washinston Post, which vas written by Mr. Paul one,
Music Editor of that paper. In the article it. Nume stated: It is an
anomaly probably unique in history that the body of a man who was worthy
to be called 'parhaps the graatest living man' lies today in a tomb that is
wholly without any marking of any kind to indicate his presence there."
Mr. Huma stated that the quotation--perhaps the greatest living man--yes
from Chief Justice Harlan Fiske Stone.
SUBJECT: Mistorical Backstound Material Relating to the Pntosbment
of the Remains of Ignace Jan Faderewski in Arlington National
Cemetary
29 AUG 1975
11. Favorable public response to Hr. Hume's Washington Post article of
15 July 1952 brought about a series of meetings participated in by rapre-
sentatives of the State Department, Department of the Interior. and the
Department of the Army as well as members of Contress and Polish-inerican
groups. The ultimate result of these beatings and subsequent sovernmental
action was the fabrication of a bronze plague bearing the following
inscription:
IGNACE JAN PADERENSKI
POLISH STATESMAN AND MUSICIAN
HIS REMAINS RIST TENPORARILY
WITHIN THE
USS MAINE MEMORIAL
This plaque was placed on metal supports in Section 45 in Arlinaton National
Cenetery near the Maine Memorial, It was dedicated by President John 7.
Kennedy, a coremony hald at the site at 10:30 a.o., Thursday. 9 Yaw 1953.
Distincuished muests in attendance at the ceremony included Secretary of
State Dean Buck. several members of Contress, and representativas of Poliab-
American patriotic socioties, Inclosed are copies of nowspaper items
concerning the Maderewaki oloque and conies of some of the Department of
the Army staff work in connection with the proposal for a Paderowski infor-
nation plaqua in Arlington National Cenetery (Inclosures 2 and 3).
12. A tane recording of President Kaneedy's renarks at Arlinaton National
Cemetery on 9 May 1963 at the dedication of the Paderewski planue is
currently sume material included in the historical reference library of
the Cenatery Division, Casualty and Memorial Affairs Directorate. Also on
file in this library is a collection of photographs of President Kennedy
and other participants in the 9 day 1763 ceremony.
13. Placement of the Paderevelli plaque is Arlicaton National Cenetery
appears to have stimulated interest concerning FT. Paderewski on the part
of the Dany visitors who come each year is Arlington National Cameter.
Inclosed are copies of two recent places of correspondence relating to
the Paderewski autombment (Inclosures 4 and 5).
14. The wooden case enclosing the casket of Mr. Padersvoki is in very bad
condition and should be replaced.
15. Continuation of the so-called "temporary" entesbment of Mr. Paderewski's
remains within the vault of the Mast of the Maine Mecorial Monument is 2
matter, the resolution of which could bring about problems and a diversity
of opinions pre and con.
SUBJECT: Historical Background Material Relating to the Entombment
of the Remains of Ignace Jan Paderewski in Arlington National
Cemetery
20 AUG 1975
i
The present Polish People's Republic maintains diplomatic
relations with the United States and is a member of the United Nations.
However, the philosophy and idiological concepts under which the present
government operates are not those of the World Har II Folish Government in
exile at the time of Paderewski's death from whose embassy his remains were
taken to Arlington National Cenetery. The embasay in Washington, D. C. on
Sixteenth Street where Paderewski's body lay in state continues as the
embassy of the Polish People's Republic.
b. Has the present Polish government evidenced any interest or
desire to receive Mr. Paderewski's remains for interment or entombment
in Poland? Would such interment or entombment commemorate Mr. Paderewski's
historic political and diplomatic activities during World War I and World
War II as well as his outstanding reputation as a musical genius?
C. The reaction and climate of opinion among Polish-American citizens
of the United States, Polish-American patriotic societies and groups as well
as the opinions of members of Congress of Polish descent, such as Senator
Muskie and others, should be considered in connection with any plans for
disposition of Paderewski's remains--retention in Mast of the Maine vsult,
renoval for interment in a private cepetery, or return of the remains to
Poland.
d. The Polish desk at the State Department or other appropriate
source within that department should be consulted for advice and
suggestions relative to status of Mr. Paderewski's remains.
4
5 Incl
C. J. BOBINSKI
CLARKE
As stated
Colonel, GS
Director, Casualty
and Memorial Affairs
COLLIER/gtd
31146
5
SPTS-MA
12 October 1962
Honorable Rarrison A. Williams, Jr.
United States Senate.
Dear Senator Williems:
This will confirm information which so exchanged by telephone on
12 October concerning the completion of plans for the erection of an
informational tablet in Arlington National Cenetery about Ignace Jan
Paderewski.
On 5 October 1962 cpi order was placed for a bronze plaque, about
12" X 24" in size, inscribed as follows:
IGNACE JAN PADERE#SKI
POLISH STATESHAN AND MUSICIAN
HIS REMAINS REST TENFORABILY
WITHIN THE
USS MAINE MEMORIAL
It will be erected OD a foundation in ledger-style in Section 46, the
area which adjoins the USS Naine Memorial and the graves of the Mains
dead. % expect that the tablet will be in place prior to 11 Rovember,
& holiday that many patriotic groups observe with ceremonies at Arlington.
The Aray will set sponsordany services to unveil the plaque.
We shall keep your staff, Mr. Feld or, in his absence, M. Oriol,
immediately advised by telephone of the delivery of the plaque by the
contractor and of the erection in the cemetery. We hope that the work
will be completed on or about 5 November. the understand that you plan
to furnish appropriate notification to the interested Members of Congress,
the representatives of Polish-American groups when you assembled in your
office at our initial conference, and Mr. Paul Hunce of THE BASHINGTON POST.
Sincerely yours,
JOHN W. HANGER
Colonel, QMC
Chief of Support Services
cc: Supt, Arlington National Cemetery
M
INFORMATION SHEET
DEDICATION OF MEMORIAL MARKER - IGNACE JAN PADEREWSKI
May 9. 1963 - 10:30 A. M.
Arlington National Cemetery
PADEREWSKI
Ignace Jan Paderewski -- pianist, composer, and statesman -- was already
renowned as E musician when in December 1919 he went to Warsaw to help organize
E provisional government for free Poland. He later served as Premier and Foreign
Minister, participating in negotiations for the Versailles Treaty. He later
served as President of the Polish Government in Exile after the Nazi conquest
of World War II. He died in New York City, June 29, 1941.
RESTING PLACE IN ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY
At the order of Franklin D. Roosevelt, the body of Paderewski was tempor-
arily placed in a repository beneath the Mast of the USS MAINE. No sign or
symbol has identified this resting place because it was understood that it
was to be temporary. Over the years, however, numerous requests had been made
for identification of some kind.
THE MARKER
Senator Harrison A. Williams (D.,N. J.), in a Senate speech last year,
asked that some memorial be provided.
As a result of meetings
and White House action since that time, the Army has fashioned a marker to
designate the site, Senator Williams has since worked with the Army, the
State Department, and Polish-American groups to arrange today's ceremony.
Congressmen who have participated in meetings with the Senator are
Representatives John Brademas, Robert N. Giaimo, Harris B. McDowell, and
Clement J. Zablocki.
FROM THE OFFICE OF SENATOR HARRISON A. WILLIAMS
352 OLD SENATE OFFICE BUILDING, WASHINGTON 25, D. C.
PROGRAM
DEDICATION OF MEMORIAL MARKER
TO IDENTIFY RESTING PLACE OF IGNACE JAN PADEREWSKI
MAY 9, 1963 - 10:30 A. M.
ARLINGTON NATIONAL CEMETERY
ARRIVAL OF THE HONORABLE JOHN F. KENNEDY, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES
INTRODUCTION OF CHAPLAIN CHMIELEWSKI
THE HON. HARRISON A. WILLIAMS, JR.
INVOCATION
CHAPLAIN JOSEPH S. CHMIELEWSKI
MILITARY DISTRICT OF WASHINGTON
REMARKS
MR. CHARLES, ROZMAREK (CHICAGO, ILL.) PRESIDENT
THE POLISH AMERICAN CONGRESS AND
THE POLISH NATIONAL ALLIANCE
REMARKS
THE HON. HARRISON A. WILLIAMS, JR.
AND INTRODUCTION OF THE HONORABLE DEAN RUSK, SECRETARY OF STATE
INTRODUCTION OF THE HONORABLE JOHN F. KENNEDY, PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES
THE HON. DEAN RUSK
REMARKS
THE HON. JOHN F. KENNEDY
THANK YOU
THE HON. HARRISON A. WILLIAMS, JR.
### ###
THE HONORABLE CYRUS R. VANCE, SECRETARY OF THE ARMY will be among those
greeting the President.
MAJOR GENERAL PAUL A. GAVAN, COMMANDING GENERAL OF THE MILITARY DISTRICT OF
WASHINGTON, will escort the President to the Speakers' Platform.
IGNACE JAN PADEREWSKI
MEMORIAL MARKER
91 MAY 1963.
Ignace Jan Paderewski, President of the Polish Government in Exile,
died in New York City on 29 June 1941. President Franklin D. Roosevelt
ordered his body to rest, temporarily, in Arlington National Cemetery
and stipulated that the remains would be returned to his homeland
when Poland was freed. The services were held in the Arlington Memorial
Amphitheater at 1045 ho TS on 5 July 1941. At the completion of the
service, the casket was sealed and placed in the base of the Mast
of the USS Mainc with full military honors.
Ignace Jan Paderewski was a pianist, composer, and statesman. He
was a renowned musician when he went to Warsaw in December 1919 to
help organize a provisional government for free Poland. Later he
served as Premier and Foreign Minister. In the latter capacity he
participated in the negotiations that resulted in the Versailles Treaty.
After the Nazis over ran Poland in the early days of World War II,
he served as President of the Polish Government in Exile.
Since Paderewshi's resting place in the base of the USS Maine was
to be temporary, no marker or other means of identification was
provided. In 1962, Senator Harrison A. Williams, New Jersey, in a
senate speech asked that a suitable memorial marher be provided.
This resulted in the Hilitary District of Washington furnishing a
bronze marker. Senator Williams, in conjuction with the Military
District of Washington, The State Department, and Polish American
groups arranged the dedication ceremony for 1030 hours on 9 May 1963.
Congressman who participated in meetings with Senator Williams were
Representatives John Brademas (Indiana) Robert N. Giaimo (Connecticut)
Harris B. McDowell and Clement J. Zablocki (Wisconsin)
WASHINGTON POST & TIMES HERALD
10 MAY 1963
Kennedy Dedicates Paderewski Plaque
By Peter S. Diggins
Staff Reporter
Ignace Jan Paderewski creating this "most appropri-
combined, in a remarkable
ate" memorial.
way, "two careers of genius,
Mr. Kennedy recalled Pres-
music and statesmanship,"
ident Franklin D. Roosevelt's
President Kennedy said yes-
promise in 1941 that Paderew-
terday as he dedicated a
ski's body would returned to
plaque marking the famed
Pol and when the land is free.
Pole's grave in Arlington
"That day has not yet come,"
Cemetery.
Mr. Kennedy said, "but I be-
"We are proud to have him
lieve that in. this land of the
free Paderewski rests easily."
here," Mr. Kennedy told a
Paderewski's "distinguished
group of high government
service made his grave well
officials who had gathered
marked," the President said,
but he "deserved to have his
around the USS Maine Memo-
rial, where Paderewski's body
history and his country
brought to the attention of
has lain with no mark or sym-
those who come to this ceme-
bol commemorating him. The
tery to honor our heroes."
great concert pianist and one-
Secretary of State Dean
time Premier and Minister of
Rusk, several Congressmen
Foreign Affairs in independent
and Senators, representatives
Poland died 21 years ago.
of American Polish groups
The Chief Executive said he
and about 200 visitors who
first learned that Paderewski
happened to be touring the
was buried at Arlington when
cemetery listened to the Pres-
he read a story by Paul Hume,
ident.
music critic for The Washing-
The avenue leading to the
ton Post. Hume wrote that
Memorial was lined with 180
"there was no marking place
soldiers, in dress uniform,
on his grave," Mr. Kennedy
from the First Battle Group
said
(Old Guard) of the 3d Infan-
Sen. Harrison A. Williams
try at Fort Myer. Another 46
Jr. (D-N. J.) read an earlier
men formed cordons along the
By Bob Burchette, Staff Photographer
article by Hume, the President
walk from Mr. Kennedy's car
said, and started activities for
President Kennedy is shown as he spoke
plaque in Arlington National Cemetery to
to the rostrum.
yesterday during the dedication of a
the memory of Ignace Jan Paderewski.
Advertisement
PLAQUE DEDICATION
IN MEMORIAM TO
IGNACE JAN PADEREWSKI
29 JUNE 1981
The American Legion dedicated a Plaque in Memoriam to
Ignace Jan Paderewski, Artist, Statesman and Humanitarian at
1400 hours. The Plaque is located about 30 feet east of the
Mast of the USS MAINE, the temporary holding area for Paderewski's
remains. Today is the 40th anniversary of his death. When he
died in 1941, Paderewski was President of the National Council
in the government-in-exile Nazi occupied Poland.
The participants in the ceremony and guests started arriving
at about 1230 hours. The American Legion National Commander
Michael J. Kogutek and his party arrived about 1340 hours. Other
dignitaries arriving at this time included the Polish Ambassador
to the United States, Polish League of American Veterans, officers
of the Polish American Legion, members of Polish Cultural Club of
Washington and invited military guests.
The group was called to order by the Master of Ceremonies
at 1400 hours. He called for the Presentation of the Colors.
At this command all attending were asked to stand and the General
Joseph Haller American Legion Post No. 95 Color Guard advanced.
The National Colors were posted to the right (north) of the podium
and the American Legion Banner on the left. The Polish Colors and
the Sons of the American Legion Banner continued to the rear of
the group. The Color Guard was followed by the Boy Scout Troop
109 Junior Color Guard of the Sons of the American Legion and by
the Buccaneers of Balitmore Junior Color Guard. This last group
also posted Colors at the podium. Miss Jacqueline Kaczynski, in
native dress, was last and took position at the podium. While
all was standing, the invocation was offered by Monsignor Eugene
Belski. At the conclusion of the prayer the Color Guards were
posted.
The American Legion National Commander Michael J. Kogutek,
gave a resume of the life of Paderewski and emphasized his rela-
tionship with the American Legion. Some of his remarks were made
in Polish. He told of how Paderewski prevailed on President
Woodrow Wilson to make an independent Poland one of his famous
"14 Points" for Peace after World War I and became his countries
first 20th century prime minister. Paderewski was also the
largest single contributor to the endowment fund created by the
American Legion in 1925 to aid disabled veterans and American
War orphans. For this a grateful Legion presented him its highest
award, the American Legion Distinguished Service Medal. National
Commander Kogutek then dedicated the bronze plaque in accordance
with Resolution No. 177 of the American Legion 1980 National
Convention on the 40th anniversary of the death of Ignace Jan
Paderewski.
Commander Kogutek was followed by Mr. Paul Hume, music editor
of the Washington Post who talked about the muscian-patriot and
his links with America. He told of how in the early 1920's he
helped Herbert Clark Hoover and the praise of Paderewski by
President Truman.
At the conclusion of his remarks, the Master of Ceremonies
introduced the distinguished guests present and asked them to
stand as their names were called.
The General Joseph Haller Post No. 95 wreath was placed in
the door of the base of the USS MAINE by Miss Jacqueline Kaczynski
and her father Joseph Kaczynski. They were followed by a floral
tribute being placed by the Polish Ambassador. During this time
there was a musical interlude of Paderewski music. The ceremony
ended with the Benediction by Monsignor Eugene Belski.
The afternoon was sunny and hot with the temperature 87°.
Approximately 125 people attended the Dedication Ceremony.
Distinguished Guests:
Major General Robert Arter, Commanding General, United
States Army Military District of Washington
Lieutenant General Edward Rowney, Salt Talks Negotiations
His Excellency Romuald Spasowski, Polish ambassador to the
United States
Mr. Peter Bridges, Director of the State Department's Office
of Easterns European Affairs
Mr. Raymond J. Costanzo, Superintendent of Arlington National
Cemetery
Mr. Stefan Korbonski, Chairman, Polish Unity Council of America
Mr. Stefan Koper, President, Polish Veterans Association
Mr. Jan K. Miska, President, Polish American Congress
Mr. Bernadette Wiermanski, President, Polish Cultural Club
of Washington
Mr. Aloysius A. Mazewski, President, Polish American Congress, Inc.
Mr. Edward S. Bogus, Jr., National First Vice Commander,
Polish Legion of American Veterans, U.S.A.
Mr. Gene S. Hentkowski, National Second Vice Commander, Polish
Legion of American Veterans
Mr. Daniel J. Kij, President, Polish Union of America, Buffalo
Mr. Fred Skowronski, President, Polish Alma Mater, Chicago
Mr. Alfred E. Grabowski, National Public Relations Officer,
Polish Legion of American Veterans, U.S.A.
Mr. Charles J. Popa, Ohio State Commander, Polish Legion of
American Veterans, U.S.A.
Mr. Victor Gray, Polish Desk Office of East European Affairs
Mr. Fred Pason, New Hampton, N.Y. Polish Legion of American
Veterans, U.S.A.
General Joseph Haller Post No. 95 Senior Color Guard
Stanley Kusinski
- Rifle
Thomas Badonice
- United States Flag
William Ahler
- Sons of the American Legion Banner
Albert Simms
- Polish Flag
Robert Haslip
- American Legion Banner
William Stockum
- Rifle
Boy Scout Troop No. 109 (sponsored by Post No. 95)
Alfred S. Robinson
- Scoutmaster
Edward C. Ramsel
- Scoutmaster
Charles J. Masters
- Assistant Scoutmaster
Casper- J. Bocklage
- Scout Commissioner
Robert Venuto
- Scout
Scott Kelly
- Scout
Ray Kelly
- Scout
Jerry Black
- Scout
Michael Foley
- Scout
Robert Zollenhoffer
- Scout
Andrew Ruffner
- Scout
Joseph Edelmann
- Scout
Richard Kosiba
- Scout
Buccaneers Junior Color Guard
Jerry Conners
- Director
Billie Jo Taylor
- Captain
Audra Gillum
- Squad Banner
Tammy Haddaway
- Squad Banner
Eugene Vaughn
- Side Arm
Mary Ann Wittig
- Side Arm
Christina Asper
- American Flag
Kim Robinson
- Polish Flag
Lisa Mrocinski
- State of Maryland Flag
James Smith
- City of Baltimore Flag
Henry Copeland
- Legion Flag
Mike Beatly
- Guard Flag
Lisa Knee
- Guard Flag
Sherry Desell
- Side Arm
Douglas Fougha
- Side Arm
Wreath - Miss Jacqueline Kaczynski
Mr. Joseph Kaczynski, Member of Post 95
The wreath laying ceremony was planned by the General Joseph
Haller, American Legion Post No. 95 of Baltimore, Maryland. This
is an all Polish-American Post named after General Joseph Haller,
Polish General of World War I who, like Paderewski, was awarded
the American Legion Distinguished Service Medal.
Relations
US
NEWS RELEASE
Division
Wm. M. Detweiler, Chairman
mm
NEWS HOTLINE (800) 428-2686
(INDIANA)
(317) 637-6649
Frederick Woodress, Director
P.O. Box 1055
Indianapolis, Indiana 46206
THE
(317)-635-8411
AMERICAN
CONTACT: Pete MacQueen/Washington
1608 K St., N.W.
Washington. D.C. 20006
LEGION
(202)-861-2792
SUBJECT SUMMARY: Remarks of American Legion National Commander Michael J. Kogutek
at dedication of Legion plaque honoring the memory of Polish
musician-statesman Ignace Jan Paderewski at Arlington National
Cemetery June 29, the 40th anniversary of Paderewski's death.
Forty years ago today, the Polish people lost one of their greatest
leaders, and the world lost one of those very rare human assets. Ignace Jan
Paderewski, for most of his 80 years, had applied his God-given genius to the
betterment of mankind enriching our culture with his music; tirelessly
working and striving to preserve the country of his birth; giving so generously
of himself and his fortunes to help those suffering from the aftermath of war.
This noble man was a particular. friend of veterans. He was an ardent
patriot, and he respected others who served their countries in times of peril.
The American Legion will be ever grateful for the contribution he made to the
establishment of a fund which today is still helping disabled veterans and
their survivors. Millions have been touched by it.
It is a very special privilege for me to represent The American Legion
at this ceremony not only because of my own Polish heritage, but also because
I believe it is important for people to remember leaders like Ignace Jan
Paderewski. For youth, he provides an example of what a person may accomplish.
His mark on history gives hope to those who may have little today. His life
shows a quality in stark contrast to the barbarous, unmerciful conquerers of
his lifetime.
To the memory of this exceptional man and his deeds, we dedicate this
plaque
hoping and praying that his example will be followed by others
that
the great causes he worked and fought for will continue to be cherished by
people everywhere.
As the first Polish-American National Commander of The American Legion, I
am proud and honored to dedicate this plaque, and to carry out the intent of
Resolution No. 177 adopted by our 1980 National Convention.
The wording reads as follows: "The American Legion in memory of Ignace
Jan Paderewski artist, composer, musician, statesman, patriot, humanitarian
and friend of American war veterans. May his soul rest in the peaceful freedom
he so wanted for his homeland of Poland." It is attested by our National
Adjutant Frank C. Momsen, and signed by me as National Commander.
IGNACE JAN PADEREWSKI
NEW OUTER CASE
Case:
Seasoned Cypress 1½ inch stock with not
less than 1½ inch finished thickness,
kiln dried, tongue or dove tail joints,
surfaced on two sides
Specifications:
Drawn up by Mr William M. Annetti, Chief,
Disposal Branch, Casualty and Memorial
Affairs Directorate, TAGCEN
Source:
National Casket Company
355 Commonwealth Avenue
Boston, Massachusetts, 02115
Shipped To:
National Casket Company
901 West Patapsco Avenue
Baltimore, Maryland, 21230
Purchase Request: 7 August 1979
Price:
$1,960.45
Order Placed:
7 August 1979 via Telecom with Mr Henry
Thornton, National Casket Company, Inc.,
by Barbara A. Washington, Defense Supply
Service-Washington, Room 1D-245, The
Pentagon, Washington D.C. 20310
Church Truck:
Heavy Duty Aluminum, Accordian Type Folding
Frame, standard 6" wheel with swivel locks
on all four wheels
Lenght - 43½ inches open, 15½ inches folded
Width - 21½ inches open, 9 inches folded
Height - 22 inches open, 22 3/4 inches folded
Price:
$259.00
Drape and Frame
Model 80-DF, Color - Grey
Attachments:
Price:
$100.00
CYPRESS HILLS
(NON-SECTARIAN)
833 JAMAICA AVENUE AT CRESCENT STREET
BROOKLYN, NEW YORK 11208
AREA CODE 212 277-2900
June 22nd
1 9
77
In Our 129th Year
Col. Casimir Lenard
c/o Polish American Congress
1725 K Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20006 Room 401
Dear Sir:
Re: Niche 25, Aisle G
C.H. Abbey Section 15
This is to advise that the Heart of Ignacz Jan Paderewski is entombed
in the above mentioned niche. The arrangements were made by John Smolenski
who resided at 1044 Manhattan Avenue, Brooklyn, N.Y. He died on June 29, 1941
at the age of 81 years. His heart was placed in this niche on Dec. 21, 1945.
His late=residence was Hotel Buckingham 6th Avenue & 57th Street, New York, N.Y.
I trust this information has been helpful to you, and if the writer can be
of further assistance, please advise.
Truly yours,
CYPRESS HILLS CEMETERY
Namey Charame
NC
Nancy Chavanne
6 THE PENTAGRAM NEWS
Thursday, July 16, 1981
Jim Garamone-Pentagram News
The remains of Ignace Jan Paderewski lie within this cedarwood box temporarily resting within the vault of
the Mast of the Maine at Arlington National Cemetery. Paderewski, the founder of the Polish Republic after
World War I, died in this country as President of the Polish Government-in-Exile in 1941. His body was to be
returned "when Poland is free."
Polish president still wating for burial
by Jim Garamone
"Paderewski also made a movie entitled
"Moonlight Sonata" which is valuable," said
Throughout history, Poland has been under the
Hume. "You can't compare him with anyone today
domination of one country or another. It has been
because the style is different."
continually traded between Russia, Prussia, and
On June 29, 1941, Paderewski, then 80, died.
Austria-Hungary and disappeared as an entity
President Franklin D. Roosevelt told officials of
countless times.
the Polish Embassy that Paderewski's body could
But Polish nationalism has never died. Following
be given a temporary resting place in the vault of
World War I, Poland re-emerged as a country.
the Mast of the Maine at Arlington National
Much of the credit for this development is assigned
Cemetery. Roosevelt said the body could stay there
to Ignace Jan Paderewski.
"until Poland is free."
Paderewski, a true Renaissance man, was a con-
Forty years later, Paderewski's body is still
cert pianist and composer of world reknown before
resting in the vault and is waiting for Polish
the war. He was born in the Russian section of
freedom. Paderewski is just as controversial in
Poland in 1860. He lived in Switzerland in the early
death as he was in life. Following World War II, his
1900's but never lost his love for a free Poland.
body remained at Arlington because the Polish
It was Paderewski who prevailed upon President
Poland government in power was not the govern-
Woodrow Wilson to include the provision that a free
ment he represented. Today Poland is once again
Poland emerge following World War I. It was the
under domination and Paderewski's body is in lim-
13th point of Wilson's famous "14 Points".
bo.
Paderewski became the first premier of Poland
His case is unique in Arlington's history. Accor-
in 1919 and represented Poland in the treaty
ding to Hume, Paderewski's heart is not buried
negotiations in Versailles. He resigned from office
with the rest of his body in keeping with Eastern
after serving 11 months. He then resumed his for-
European tradition. His heart is contained in a
midable concert career. Paderewski was involved
vault in Brooklyn.
in many charity appearances including a concert
Representatives of the Polish People's Republic
tour in the United States. He donated $28,500 to an
have attended some of the ceremonies at
American Legion endowment fund designed to sup-
Paderewski's resting place. According to the
port those disabled or orphaned in World War I.
Polish Embassy, there's no plan currently in the
In Sept. 1939, Poland was once again invaded by
works to get Paderewski's body back to Poland.
Germany and Russia. The country was crushed by
Hume would be surprised if his body was return-
the weight of these superpowers and the govern-
ed to Poland. "Paderewski wanted to be buried in
ment went into exile. Paderewski answered the call
Krakow," he said. "If his body were returned,
of duty and was named presidnet of the National
many people in the United States would be sym-
Council of the Polish Government-in-Exile.
bolically opposed to it."
The government was first based in Paris. After
Paderewski's casket is encased in a cedarwood
the fall of France in 1940 it moved to London.
box. The original box deteriorated due to exposure
Paderewski moved his base of operations to New
to the elements. (The Maine Monument is not
York City where he was active in recruiting Polish
weatherproof). When Pope John Paul II visited
immigrants for Free Polish military forces and
Washington in 1979, the box was replaced in case he
raising money for Allied military hospitals in Great
wanted to view the remains.
Britain.
For 21 years there was not even a marker to show
Musically, Paderewski dominated his era.
where one of Poland's most famous men rested. In
"Paderewski was one of the most popular and
1962 a plaque was set up outside the Maine Monu-
highest paid performers of his time," said his
ment. On the 40th anniversary of Paderewski's
biographer Paul Hume, a "Washington Post"
death, the American Legion presented another pla-
Jim Garamone-Pentagram News
critic. "His opera "Manru" is still performed fre-
que.
quently. He composed a symphony, a piano concer-
The vault of the Mast of the Maine contains the re-
What will happen? No one seems to know. The on-
to, a sonata for violin and piano and a work entitled
mains of Ignace Jan Paderewski, Polish na-
ly sure thing at the moment is that the body of one
"Fantasy on Polish Melodies" among his other
tionalist, premier, and president. Not a permanent
of Poland's most revered men will remain at Arl-
works."
arrangement, Paderewski is not eligible for burial
ington Cemetery "until Poland is free".
at Arlington.