Dariusz Klepko
Highlights of the Exhibition
Philatelic Collections
The exhibition features several significant stamp collections and vintage envelopes marked “First Day of Issue”, each bearing a special collector’s print known as a cachet.
A central element is the 5‑cent U.S. postage stamp from 1943–44 featuring the Polish Flag. This stamp served as the United States’ official acknowledgment of Poland’s sovereignty during World War II. By issuing this stamp on June 22, 1943, the U.S. government affirmed that Poland—despite its occupation—remained a legitimate state and that its struggle for liberation was internationally recognized.
A larger display card presents stamps from the entire 1943 Allied Nations series, including Poland, Czechoslovakia, Norway, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Belgium, France, Greece, Yugoslavia, Albania, Austria, and Denmark.
Historical Figures Featured in the Collection
Tadeusz Kościuszko
“Son of Liberty,” brigadier general in the American Revolutionary War and national hero of Poland. Displayed on envelopes and stamps, including a series marking the 150th anniversary of the U.S. Constitution and the 150th anniversary of Kościuszko’s American citizenship (October 13, 1933).
Ignacy Jan Paderewski
Legendary pianist, composer, statesman, and key advocate for Poland’s independence after World War I. Featured on the “Champion of Liberty” envelope issued on the 100th anniversary of his birth in 1960.
Kazimierz Pułaski
“The Father of the American Cavalry,” who fought for freedom in both Poland and the United States. Included in stamp sets commemorating the 150th anniversary of the U.S. Constitution, alongside Kościuszko and Washington.
Additional Philatelic and Numismatic Items
Occasional Sheets
Stamps titled “The Thousandth Anniversary of the Polish State”, featuring the Polish flag and national emblem.
Stamps of the Constitution
Stamps and envelopes marking the 200th anniversary of the Constitution of May 3, often depicting Jan Matejko’s famous painting.
Historical Artifacts and Documents
Flags and Pennants
Displayed items include white‑and‑red Polish flags, small banners, and a pennant inscribed POLAND, adorned with the White Eagle and gold fringe.
Commemorative Medals and Pins
- Large Commemorative Medal of Pope John Paul II Issued for the 40th anniversary of his first pilgrimage to Poland (1979). Plated with 24‑carat gold and bearing the motto: “Let your Spirit come down and renew the face of the earth, this earth!” Minted by the Polish Mint.
- Pin with Our Lady of Częstochowa Inscribed with “Pray for us.”
Official Correspondence
A letter from Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki highlights the significance of the Polish flag and national symbols, referencing flags awarded in Warsaw on May 2, 2018, to distinguished activists.
Constitutional Documents
Reproductions of the Government Act of May 3, 1791, including a detailed poster of Matejko’s painting depicting King Stanisław August Poniatowski and members of the Grand Sejm.
Historical Photograph
- Polish Flag Raised in Berlin – May 2, 1945 A photograph of the Polish flag atop the Berlin Victory Column.
- Two Soldiers Raising a Flag, featuring the inscription: “Honor and glory to the heroes!”
Purpose and Significance of the Exhibition
This exhibition commemorates pivotal events and figures in Polish history, emphasizing the enduring importance of national symbols and the contributions of individuals who shaped Poland’s identity and freedom.
A Symbol of Constant Resistance
Patriotic envelopes bearing the inscription “Poland Continues to Fight!” illustrate how philatelic materials carried a message of resilience and international recognition of Poland’s struggle during World War II.
Preservation of National Identity
The presence of the Polish flag on millions of wartime letters helped maintain national identity and affirmed Poland’s refusal to succumb to totalitarian oppression. The exhibition draws a symbolic line from the 1943 stamps to the raising of the Polish flag in Berlin in 1945, presenting philately as part of the broader narrative of reclaiming freedom.
Historical Continuity of Freedom
By displaying WWII stamps alongside those honoring Kościuszko and Pułaski, the exhibition underscores a long tradition of Polish contributions to the global fight for liberty, culminating in the ideals embodied in the Constitution of May 3.
Narrator of the May 3 Historical Exhibition
Dariusz Klepko, May 3, 2026, Resident of the Detroit Metropolitan Area.
Dariusz Klepko is a state director at the Polish American Congress and a member of several Polish community organizations. He would like to invite you to a numismatic exhibit this Sunday, May 3, in Orchard Lake, before the solemn Mass at the church entrance at 1:00 PM.
