Kazimierz Piechowski: a Polish scout who escaped Auschwitz

18/06/2024
History

Kazimierz Piechowski was a Polish scout who made a daring escape from the Nazi German concentration camp of Auschwitz during WWII.

From an early age, Piechowski was imbued with a deep sense of patriotism. This fervent love for his homeland led him to join the Polish resistance movement against the German occupation during World War II. His efforts were met with brutal retaliation. In November 1939, while attempting to flee to Hungary, he was captured by the Gestapo and was sent to Auschwitz in June 1940.

Auschwitz was synonymous with unimaginable brutality and suffering. As a political prisoner, Piechowski witnessed and endured the daily horrors inflicted by the German guards. Despite the constant threat of death, his spirit remained unbroken.

Among his fellow prisoners was Witold Pilecki, a renowned figure in the Polish resistance who had voluntarily infiltrated Auschwitz to gather intelligence and organise resistance. Pilecki’s extraordinary bravery and unyielding commitment to Poland deeply influenced Piechowski and fortified his resolve to fight the occupiers.

On 20 June 1942, Piechowski, along with three other prisoners—Eugeniusz Bendera, Stanisław Jaster, and Józef Lempart—executed one of the most daring escapes in history. Disguised in stolen SS uniforms and armed with weapons from the camp’s armoury, the group commandeered an SS staff car. With nerves of steel, they bluffed their way through the camp’s main gate.

Piechowski’s struggles did not end with the war. After the defeat of Nazi Germany, Poland fell under communist. True to his patriotic spirit, Piechowski joined the anti-communist resistance. In 1947, he was arrested by the new regime and endured seven years in prison. Despite these hardships, he remained steadfast in his commitment to Poland.

After his release, Piechowski led a quieter life, working as an engineer. It was only later in life that he began to speak about his wartime experiences, ensuring that the stories of resistance and courage were not forgotten. His ties with Pilecki and other resistance fighters became well-known, cementing his status as a national hero.