Events with tag - Defensive War

September 1, 1939

September Campaign

The September Campaign began on September 1, 1939, with Germany's attack on Poland, and on September 17, the Soviet Union joined the invasion. Despite heroic defense, including the symbolic defense of Westerplatte, the military superiority of the aggressors led to Poland's defeat. The campaign ended on October 6, 1939, with the capitulation of the last regular units at Kock.

September 17, 1939

Red Army Invasion of Poland

On September 17, 1939, the Red Army crossed Poland's borders, implementing the secret provisions of the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact. This event, along with the subsequent Soviet troops' entry in 1944, fundamentally changed Poland's fate, leading to the installation of communist rule and significant territorial changes after World War II.

September 28, 1939

Capitulation of Warsaw

The capitulation of Warsaw on September 28, 1939, ended the heroic 20-day defense of Poland's capital against the German invader. After exhausting combat, facing overwhelming enemy forces, lack of supplies, and a dramatic situation of civilians, the city's defense command decided to surrender. The act of capitulation was signed at 13:15 in Ożarów Mazowiecki.

October 2, 1939

Battle of Kock

The Battle of Kock (October 2-5, 1939) was the last battle of regular Polish Army units during the September Campaign. The Independent Operational Group 'Polesie' under the command of General Franciszek Kleeberg made a heroic stand against superior German forces. Despite the inevitable defeat, the battle became a symbol of Polish soldier's indomitability.