On 5 march 2026 the remains of Polish officers murdered by Soviet authorities were finally laid to rest in the Katyń Chapel at the Garrison Church, Minor Basilica of St. Elizabeth in Wrocław. This symbolic burial honours thousands of victims of the Katyn Massacre, including those whose resting places are still unknown. The solemn ceremony was attended by state authorities, clergy, members of the Polish Armed Forces, families of the victims, and representatives of public institutions.
Minister Beata Kempa read a letter from President Karol Nawrocki: Their only crime was being Polish. Today, we lay to rest their remains and pledge never to forget their heroism and tragic fate.
During the final farewell, the urns were incensed, sprinkled with holy water, and prayers were offered for the deceased. Among those present were Archbishop Józef Kupny, Prosecutor Andrzej Pozorski, Teresa Gwara, President of the Lower Silesian Katyń Family Association, and the daughter of officer Tadeusz Maciej Chołociński, murdered in Kharkiv by the NKVD.
Prof. Karol Polejowski, the Deputy President of the IPN, reminded everyone of the ceremony’s deeper meaning: With military honours and flag-bearing units, we unite under the motto ‘God and Fatherland.’ To God, we give honour; to the Fatherland, we restore our heroes. Our duty is to ensure that the memory of Katyń never fades.
For 25 years, the IPN has preserved the truth about Katyn, commemorated the victims, and reminded society of the perpetrators. This mission continues, ensuring that future generations understand the full scope of this tragedy and honour Poland’s fallen heroes.