A Lasting Bond: The Strong Relationship Between Polish and British Forces
To honour the sacrifice of General S. Sosabowski and his 1st Independent Parachute Brigade, the Polish Border Guard Band will perform a Market Garden March at this year's The Heroes Who Made Us Show.
The connection between Poland and the British Army has been built on generations of trust, courage, and shared sacrifice. During World War II, Polish and British forces fought side by side on all fronts - on land, at sea, and in the air.
In 1944, the Polish 1st Independent Parachute Brigade, formed in Scotland, stood shoulder to shoulder with British troops during Operation Market Garden. The unit was led by General Stanisław Sosabowski, who had served in the Austro-Hungarian Army during the First World War. During the Second World War, he was taken prisoner following the German invasion of Poland but escaped to France, and later to Britain, where he formed and led the Brigade.
Although Sosabowski raised concerns about the planning of Operation Market Garden, he remained true to his principles and led his men into battle with determination. His leadership helped save over 2,000 lives, marking a defining moment in our shared military history. In recognition of their bravery, the Queen of the Netherlands awarded the Brigade the Military Order of Wilhelm, the country’s highest military honour.
That legacy of solidarity lives on today. Polish and British soldiers continue to serve together in NATO missions in Iraq, Afghanistan, and beyond. Our cooperation grows stronger, rooted in the past and looking firmly to the future.
This August, the Polish Border Guard Band will perform the Market Garden March in honour of this sacrifice at The Heroes Who Made Us Show.
It is a great honour for the Band to perform in Scotland, a place that holds deep meaning for Polish military history. This performance is also a heartfelt way to thank the Scottish people for their hospitality, which welcomed so many Polish soldiers after the war.
Communications, Polish Diaspora and Public Diplomacy Department.
The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo creates a platform to showcase military tradition across cultures, so it’s great to welcome the Band of The Polish Border Guard as we celebrate The Heroes Who Made Us.
“The performance from the Band of The Polish Border Guard will consist of original choreography to accompany the rhythm of traditional folk instruments in a precision display.
Their performance of the Market Garden March will be a special moment during the Show, serving as a reminder of the sacrifice of the Polish 1st Independent Parachute Brigade and the lasting friendship between our two nations. We look forward to welcoming them to the Tattoo.”
Creative Director of The Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo.
Tickets for the 2025 Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo Show, The Heroes Who Made Us, are on sale now. They can be purchased online or by phoning +44 (0) 131 225 1188.
24 June 2025