105th anniversary of Poland’s marriage to the sea. Mieczysław Struk: A moment of triumph for the Polish nation

On February 10, 1920, in Puck, general Józef Haller, commander of the Pomeranian Front, performed the symbolic act of Poland’s marriage to the Baltic Sea. By throwing a platinum ring into the waters, he sealed Poland’s return to the coast after years of partition. This event was not only symbolic but also strategic—it marked the country’s new economic potential with access to the sea.

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10 february 2025   |   22:53   |   Source: Gazeta Morska   |   Prepared by: Kamil Kusier   |   Print

fot. Mieczysław Struk / FB

The 105th anniversary of this historic event was commemorated in Puck with official celebrations attended by state and local government representatives, residents of Pomerania, and distinguished guests. Among them were the mayor of Warsaw and Polish presidential candidate Rafał Trzaskowski, Pomeranian voivode Beata Rutkiewicz, and marshal of the Pomeranian voivodeship Mieczysław Struk.

Historical and economic significance

Reflecting on the significance of this moment, marshal of the Pomeranian voivodeship Mieczysław Struk emphasized its lasting impact:

“Poland’s marriage to the sea was a moment of triumph and joy for the Polish nation. This event reminds us how vital unity was in our pursuit of freedom. For the Kashubians and the people of Pomerania, this act held special meaning, as their lands, deeply connected to the Baltic, were an integral part of Poland.”

Following the restoration of independence, Poland had to act swiftly to maximize the opportunities granted by access to the sea. A key step was the establishment of maritime administration, the development of maritime education, and the construction of port infrastructure. In 1920, engineer Tadeusz Wenda identified the village of Gdynia as the optimal location for building a modern port.

Pomeranian voivode Beata Rutkiewicz highlighted the immense effort required for Poland to establish itself as a maritime nation:

“After regaining independence and access to the sea, we were able, in a short time, to build ports and even the city of Gdynia—a source of envy among our neighbors. It took strength and perseverance to achieve this. We did it!”

Anniversary celebrations and honoring maritime contributors

During this year’s celebrations, the Maritime and River League awarded deputy minister of infrastructure Arkadiusz Marchewka with the “Pro Mari Nostro” Cross—the organization’s highest distinction. Upon receiving the award, he stressed the importance of continuing efforts to develop Poland’s maritime economy:

“We must remember that thanks to the sacrifices of Poles who fought to regain access to the Baltic, we can develop our economy and ensure our security.”

Expanding Poland’s presence at sea has always been, and remains, crucial to the country’s economic development. Today, Polish ports, shipyards, and the maritime industry form a vital pillar of national progress. The anniversary of Poland’s marriage to the sea serves as a reminder that the Baltic is not merely a historical symbol but a continuous source of opportunities and challenges for future generations.

 

puck zaślubiny polski z morzem mieczysław struk arkadiusz marchewka morze bałtyckie

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