ORP BLYSKAWICA DEFENDS COWES 4TH/5TH MAY 1942
This painting uses a degree of artistic licence to capture the ship’s role in challenging the bombers intent on destroying the town,
COWES HERITAGE and
COMMUNITY GROUP
Registered Charity: 1192247
ORP Blyskawica
ORP BLYSKAWICA SHIP'S BADGE,
A source of great pride for the Polish Nation remembering the heroic actions of their brave countrymen.
NOW A MUSEUM SHIP IN GDYNIA POLAND
In immaculate condition this ship built in Cowes regularly attracts visitors including many from the Island,
FITTING OUT WITH SISTER SHIP ORP GROM
Sister ships ordered by the Polish Navy and launched in 1936. ORP Grom (Thunder) was sunk on 4th May 1940 during the Norwegian campaign. On the same day two years later her sister ship ORP Bylskawica (Lighting) was heroically defending Cowes & East Cowes.
CAPTAIN WOJCIECH FRANCKI PN, DSC. COMMANDER OF O.R.P. BLYSKAWICA
Whilst ORP Blyskawica was in Cowes for repairs Captain Francki on his own volition ordered his ship to remain armed to defend Cowes in anticipation of an enemy attack. The initiative and leadership of Captain enabled the brave Polish crew to repel the Luftwaffe’s intensive aerial attack so that the loss to the community was dramatically reduced.
Francki Place in Cowes has been named in his honour.
THE TOWN REMEMBERS THE 4TH/5TH MAY 1942.
An annual event with both Cowes & East Cowes celebrating the defence of Cowes. The last big event in 2017 celebrated the 75th Anniversay, The Polish Navy Minelayer ORP Gniezno the Polish Ambassador & High Commisioner as well as officers & men from ORP Blyswakica were in attendance as well a local dignitaries, children & representitives of the Polish community in Southampton made this a fitting tribute. This and other events were organised by the Friends of ORP Blyskawica.