Honouring role of brave Poles

JO CLARKE EXPLAINS WHY PLYMOUTH HONOURED OVERSEAS WARTIME HEROES

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POLAND made a major, though sometimes under-recognised, contribution to the Allied effort during the Second World War.

It was invaded by Germany on September 1, 1939. The UK and France then declared war on Germany two days later. The Red Army subsequently invaded Poland on September 17. By October 6, German and Soviet forces had gained full control of Poland and set about dividing and annexing the country.

Although Poland was occupied, its political and military leadership established a government-in-exile (first in France, later in London), which coordinated Polish forces.

Throughout the war Poland's contributions included major combat forces in Europe, air and naval operations, code-breaking work, intelligence support and a large resistance movement.