Casimir Pulaski

Casimir Pulaski, or Kazimierz Pułaski in Polish (full name Kazimierz Michał Wacław Wiktor Pułaski; March 6, 1745 – October 11, 1779) was a Polish nobleman of Ślepowron coat-of-arms, soldier and military commander who has been called "the father of American cavalry". Despite his fame, until recently, there have been uncertainties and controversies surrounding both his place of birth and burial.

Pulaski was one of the leading military commanders for the Bar Confederation and fought against Russian domination of the Polish–Lithuanian Commonwealth. When this uprising failed, he emigrated to North America as a soldier of fortune, following the endorsement of Benjamin Franklin. During the American Revolutionary War, he saved the life of George Washington and became a general in the Continental Army. He created the Pulaski Cavalry Legion and reformed the American cavalry. He died of wounds suffered in the Battle of Savannah.

He has been remembered as a hero fighting for independence and freedom both in Poland and in the United States. Numerous places and events are named in his honor, and he is commemorated by many works of art. Pulaski is one of only seven people to be awarded honorary United States citizenship.