Memorial Mass for General Anders

The Polish community was here in force yesterday to honour General Wladyslaw Anders, a war hero and politician. After the invasion of Poland during World War II he led 'Anders Army' in exile, which later became the 2nd Polish Corps, and which distinguished itself at Monte Cassino. Following the War, unwilling to return to Soviet-dominated Poland, he was prominent in the Polish govenment in exile in London. General Anders died in London in 1970, and was buried, in accordance with his wishes, alongside his comrades at the large Polish war cemetery at Monte Cassino.

For this celebration, the current Polish government sent two solders, who stood guard by the General's portrait throughout the Mass.

The celebrant was Archbishop Wesolego, who has responsibility for Polish migrants, assisted by Bishop Ploskiego, Bishop to the armed forces. We were fortunate that our own Fr Slawomir was able to act as interpreter and Master of Ceremonies.

There was a host of Polish scouts, and banners and medals were very much in evidence. It was a glorious celebration, with beautiful singing.

However, as Fr Slawomir pointed out, this was the long-standing Polish community in London, that represents those who came over during or after the war. The new wave of migrants, which has so transformed our society, was not present, as the figure of General Anders is less immediate to them.