Homage to the Railway Workers of the Warsaw Junction

Representatives of the railway community will commemorate railway workers of the Warsaw junction who died and were murdered during World War II. The ceremonies planned for September 17, 2025, are being organized by the Railway Museum, the PKP Group Foundation, and the Federation of Railway Trade Unions.

Honoring the memory of railway workers who died during World War II is our obligation and duty to future generations. The PKP Group Foundation has been involved for years in activities aimed at preserving the history and heritage of railways in Poland, which is why on September 17th, we will stand before the commemorative plaque at Warsaw Central Station and pay due tribute to the fallen railway workers – explains Dariusz Grajda, Vice President of PKP S.A. and Chairman of the PKP Group Foundation Council.

The event has not only historical but also social significance. The organizers point out that remembering the sacrifice of railway workers from over 80 years ago is also an opportunity to discuss cooperation and responsibility in today's world.

In September 1939, Warsaw railway workers suffered heavy losses – many died during bombings and shelling of stations, others while trying to secure rolling stock and evacuate the population. They were also among the first victims of the occupier's repression. Their fates remind us that even in the face of danger, they performed their duties, and remembering their sacrifice remains our obligation – emphasizes Jan Przywoźny, chairman of the Federation of Railway Trade Unions.

The celebrations will begin at 10:00 AM with a scientific conference at the Museum Station.

The conference dedicated to the memory of the railway workers of the Warsaw hub who lost their lives during World War II is not only a tribute to their courage and sacrifice but also an important element in preserving the heritage of Polish railways," says Emilia Oleksiak, director of the Railway Museum. "Their story is part of our national identity – full of heroism, solidarity, and the fight for freedom. As the Railway Museum, we feel obliged not only to preserve this memory but also to pass it on to future generations," she adds.

Next, at 1:00 PM, a ceremony is planned at the renovated memorial plaque at Warsaw Central Railway Station named after Stanisław Moniuszko, dedicated to the memory of fallen and murdered railway workers. The event will conclude with a Holy Mass, which will be celebrated at 2:00 PM at St. Barbara's Church at Nowogrodzka Street.

Representatives of railway companies, trade unionists, and the industry's educational sector have announced their participation in the event. Organizers also encourage residents and all interested parties to join the celebrations.