War Experiences of Adam Vetulani (1939–1945) Cover Image

Wojenne losy Adama Vetulaniego (1939–1945)
War Experiences of Adam Vetulani (1939–1945)

Author(s): Piotr Biliński
Subject(s): Social history, History of Education, WW II and following years (1940 - 1949)
Published by: Wydawnictwo Uniwersytetu Jagiellońskiego
Keywords: Adam Vetulani; World War II; internment in Switzerland; education of Polish soldiers;

Summary/Abstract: In September 1939, Professor Adam Vetulani participated in the military campaign against Germany with the rank of platoon sergeant. On September 17, he crossed the border into Romania and was subsequently interned. In April 1940, he made his way to France through Yugoslavia and northern Italy. He joined the 2nd Infantry Rifle Division commanded by General Bronisław Prugar-Ketling. After the defeat of France, the entire division, including Vetulani, crossed into neutral Switzerland, where he was interned. He spent five years in the Helvetian country from 1940 to 1945. With the help of the Swiss authorities, he organized high school and university education for the interned soldiers. As a result of his efforts, several hundred Poles received university degrees, and dozens received doctorates. On behalf of the Polish government-in-exile, he also served as a representative of the National Culture Fund, offering modest stipends to academics. His dedication to organizational and scientific activities earned him the recognition and respect of his superiors.

  • Issue Year: 2023
  • Issue No: 3
  • Page Range: 57-79
  • Page Count: 23
  • Language: Polish