October is Polish American Heritage Month, and the occasion will kick off with the 87th annual General Casimir Pulaski Memorial Parade. First held in 1937, the Pulaski Parade is the oldest ethnic parade in New York City. On Sunday, October 6, the parade will traverse Fifth Avenue, starting at 35th at 12 p.m., and from there, passing the New York Public Library, Rockefeller Center, and Saint Patrick's Cathedral on its way to its terminus at 54th Street.

In addition to serving as a celebration of all the contributions Polish Americans have made to our city and country, the event is a memorial to General Casimir Pulaski. Pulaski valiantly defended his homeland of Poland and fought bravely to help forge our country as well.

After hearing of Pulaski's battlefield prowess, Benjamin Franklin invited him to come to our aid in 1777. Pulaski became a general in the Continental Army, creating the Pulaski Cavalry Legion. Moreover, he reformed the American cavalry, earning him the moniker "Father of the American Cavalry."

In 1779, he was mortally wounded by British forces at the Siege of Savannah. Soon after, he succumbed to his injuries. He was only 32 years old. His service to the cause of freedom gives meaning to this year's parade theme, "For Freedom Is Measured by Crosses."

The Grand Marshal of this year's parade is the Honorable Piotr Praszkowicz. Born in Poland in 1970, Praszkowicz immigrated to the United States in 1991. He has prospered in various business ventures, including his contracting company, PDP Contracting, which he has been running since 1997. He is also active with several of Polonia's charities and foundations. He is a proud member of the Pulaski Association of Business and Professional Men, which sponsors the Pulaski Day Parade.

Centered in Greenpoint, Brooklyn, Broadway Stages is reminded daily of the beauty and richness of Polish heritage and culture. And while we love to dig into a plate of kielbasa and pierogies, we know there is much more to celebrate. We look forward to saying dziękuję (thank you) for the generations of contributions Polish Americans have made to our city throughout October, starting with the 87th annual General Casimir Pulaski Memorial Parade on October 6. See you there!