Lusatian Literature: Horka − The Lusatian Drama of the Medical Service of the 2nd Polish Army

The book with the title >>Horka − The Lusatian drama of the 2nd Polish Army’s Medical Service<< represents one of the darkest and bloodiest episodes the Polish forces experienced during World War II. It documents the heavy losses and human suffering that took place away from the well-known Warsaw uprising. The work offers an impressive and detailed analysis of the structure, staff and the diverse activities of theMedical service of the 2nd Polish Army (2nd AWP), whereby it always keeps an eye on the socio-political context. The main focus is on the dramatic fate of the 13th independent medical battalion, which was stationed in April 1945 in the village of Horka in the Lusatia. There, they treated and liquidated several hundred wounded Polish soldiers in a phase that was approached by the approachingcollapse of the German defense. This episode is characterized by human suffering, despair, but also by courage and willingness to make sacrifices. The monograph is mainly based on a variety of documents collected in Polish and international archives. The main sources include the Central Military Archive in Warsaw, the Institute for NationalMemorial also in Warsaw, the State Archives and the archive of the Roman Catholic community in Crostwitz, in Lusatia. The authors also worked closely with leading scientists from the Lusatian region and Russia. This cooperation enabled access to a variety of valuable, previously unpublished sources that the work with authenticity andenrich scientific depth.

Structure and content of the monograph: extensive documentation and valuable materials

The book is divided into five chapters, supplemented by an introduction, an epilogue, an extensive bibliography, a detailed name and geographical register and attachments. These appendices contain copies of authentic documents, letters, reports and photos that bring the events to life and underline the historical accuracy. In addition, biographical notes of theresponsible persons of the medical battalion, which gives readers a deeper insight into the actors involved. The work is richly illustrated by a variety of unique photographs, engravings and documents that visually support the dramatic episode. It is particularly noteworthy that the monograph was published in two languages -in Polish and German. In doing so, it opens up access for both German readers and the Sorbs in Lusatia, who are closely linked to these events. The bilingual publication helps to explore and spread the common history of our neighboring countries. It is of great importance to know these dark chapters of the past and theto publicize events to promote mutual understanding and reconciliation between nations.

Support and reception: honor and scientific appreciation

The publication was published under the honorary patronage of Artur Pachta, President of the Medical Council of the Military Medical Association. In addition, the project received generous financial support from the Military Medical Association and the editorial board of the Supreme Medical Council. Colonel Dr. N. med. Mariusz Goniewicz was extremely positive about themonograph. He emphasized that the authors also analyzed the development of a kind of memory culture for the fallen soldiers of the Polish army. The considerations of how this culture of commemoration in the socio-political change in Poland in Poland have changed in recent years are particularly interesting. especially the suggestion that the Polish military physician’s attitude from the secondUsing World War as a role model for the training of young doctors and medical professionals met with great interest. This perspective not only opens up historical-scientific insights, but also practical approaches to the present and future of military medicine. The monograph thus provides a valuable basis for future generations of researchers toto understand the history of the military medical service. It helps to better understand the complex relationships between struggle, death and medical care during World War II.

Importance for understanding German crimes and historical processing

Another important contribution comes from Colonel Rez. Dr. Hab. N. med. Grzegorz Kade, who emphasizes that the publication closes an important gap in research into German crimes against Polish soldiers during the deployment of the Polish Army. The systematic and chronological presentation of the events promotes understanding of the harrowing aspects of thesepast. The structured work system ensures that even complex connections remain understandable and that the terrible crimes are understood not only as individual fates, but as part of a larger, systematic crime. Numerous photos, engravings and tables make understanding much easier and enable clear communication of the events.This work should be an indispensable reading not only for young military doctors, but also for those interested in history, scientists and the general public. Only through a precise and honest presentation of all the facts can the awareness of the crimes committed in the past be raised. The goal is to keep the memory of the victims awake andto create a basis on which neighborly relations between Poland, Germany and the Sorbs can build. The conscious avoidance of glorification and honest processing are essential to maintain trust between peoples and develop a respectful culture of remembrance. Only in this way can the past be a reminder for the present and futureserve to prevent similar crimes and to strengthen respect for human dignity in all societies.