REGINA, Sask. — A monument honouring Polish veterans and people displaced by the First and Second World Wars has been unveiled at the Field of Honour in Riverside Memorial Park Cemetery.
The Polish Canadian Cultural Club of Regina led the project, which organizers say is the first monument of its kind in Saskatchewan. Three members of Regina's Polish community who survived the Second World War took part in Sunday's unveiling and dedication.
The memorial recognizes approximately 200 Polish veterans, along with hundreds of Polish men, women and children who came to Saskatchewan in the aftermath of the wars and made the province their home.
Bron Nurkowski, chair of the club's Veterans' Monument Committee and the monument's concept designer, said he hopes it will help future generations understand the sacrifices made by those who came before them.
“I hope this monument will remind future generations of the courage, sacrifice and resilience of those who fought for freedom and those who rebuilt their lives in Saskatchewan while maintaining the Polish culture for future generations,” Nurkowski said.
The steel structure features a laser-cut Polish eagle at the top, a central panel displaying a commemorative plaque and the Polish flag near its base.
Its circular design represents both the barrel of a gun, symbolizing the force that drove Polish families from their homes, and the unity and perseverance of those who survived.
A plaque accompanying the monument includes names of those being honoured. The Polish Canadian Cultural Club has spent decades collecting names, photographs and personal stories, and says that work will continue.
Polish consul general Aleksandra Kucy-Kropiwnicka said the memorial will provide another place for people to learn about the experiences and contributions of Polish pioneers in Saskatchewan.
“But foremost it will be the symbol of respect for the heroism of past generations and will allow for sharing the knowledge with generations to come,” she said.
The project began in March 2026 and cost $27,200 from concept to completion. It was funded through sponsorships and community contributions, while the City of Regina donated the land. Ledcor Construction, Pro Metal Ltd., WP Monuments and PLS Signs also contributed to the project.
The memorial comes as the Polish community continues to have a significant presence in the province. According to the 2021 census, more than 55,600 Saskatchewan residents reported Polish ancestry, making it the province's 10th most commonly reported ethnic or cultural origin.
