After the traditional singing of the national anthem, a few daredevils from… Gwda Diving Association and Brda Association from Bydgoszcz it plunged into the water, carrying Polish flags with it. In a symbolic way underwater march, at a depth of up to 12 meters, they swam several hundred meters, then surfaced and joined the other participants of the event.
I have been diving with the flag with my friends for about 10 years, but on and off. Annually, cyclically for four years. The idea was spontaneous. I invented it together with Jacek Jackowiak.
Leszek SkwaraGwda Diving Association
Traditional Polish delicacies were already waiting on the shore: sour rye soup, St. Martin’s croissants and cake. There was also hot tea with lemon to warm up the audience. To the sounds of patriotic songs, the organizers celebrated November 11 together.
[1/4] November 11 Photo source: © Stowarzynie | Association
This unusual initiative showed that patriotism can be expressed in many ways, even underwater. Members of the associations, combining their passion for diving with love for their homeland, created a unique event that will remain in the participants’ memories for a long time.
Swimming with Flags: A Dive Into Patriotism
Well, they say that patriotism is a wonderful thing, but who knew it could be so… wet? After the traditional singing of the national anthem, a few daredevils from the Gwda Diving Association and Brda Association from Bydgoszcz took the plunge – literally! Plunging into the refreshing depths, carrying Polish flags like underwater superheroes, these brave souls showcased their rightful place: beneath the waves.
“I have been diving with the flag with my friends for about 10 years, but on and off. Annually, cyclically for four years. The idea was spontaneous. I invented it together with Jacek Jackowiak.”
— Leszek Skwara, Gwda Diving Association
Celebrating Underwater
So picture this: while most of us are throwing a barbecue in the backyard or getting cozy with a good film on November 11, these daredevils are swimming several hundred meters underwater at a depth of up to 12 meters. It’s more than just a swim; it’s a full-on underwater march! It’s like a parade but without the confetti—because, you know, it’s underwater. And thankfully, no floats, because, let’s be honest, a big rubber duck would just sink!
Patriotism on the Surface and Below
Emerging from the depths, these brave souls didn’t stop at just proving their aquatic prowess. No, no! They joined the other participants to celebrate with a feast of traditional Polish delicacies. Think sour rye soup and St. Martin’s croissants—heavenly! By the way, if you haven’t tried hot tea with lemon after an icy swim, you haven’t truly lived, my friends. It’s the only thing that warms your soul faster than a Netflix binge after a long week.
All of this, accompanied by the soulful notes of patriotic songs echoing across the waters. Now that’s something you wouldn’t see on a usual Sunday afternoon! It seems that expressing one’s love for the homeland doesn’t always require a flag-waving session on a podium. Sometimes, it just means waving that flag while dodging fish—who knew?
What Does All This Mean?
This delightful initiative not only displayed a unique take on patriotism but also reminded us that love for one’s country can manifest in various creative forms, including, but not limited to, diving like you’re in a James Bond movie. Members of the associations, combining their passion for diving with their love for Poland, created an event that won’t just make waves in the water, but also in the hearts and minds of all who participated.
Final Thoughts
So, whether you’re a diver, a flag-waver, or just someone who appreciates a good bowl of soup after an exhilarating dive, this celebration stands as a powerful reminder: patriotism is not just about the land you can stand on, but sometimes, it’s also about the waters you can swim in. Dive deep, celebrate wide, and never forget to keep that flag flying—even when you’re three meters under!
How does Leszek Skwara believe events like this strengthen community bonds and promote patriotism among participants?
**Interview with Leszek Skwara, Gwda Diving Association**
**Editor:** Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Leszek Skwara from the Gwda Diving Association, one of the organizers of a unique patriotic event that took place on November 11. Leszek, thank you for joining us!
**Leszek Skwara:** Thank you for having me! It’s great to share our experience.
**Editor:** Let’s dive right in—no pun intended! Can you tell us about the event that took place recently?
**Leszek Skwara:** Absolutely! After the traditional singing of the national anthem, we had a group of divers from the Gwda Diving Association and the Brda Association from Bydgoszcz plunge into the water carrying Polish flags. This underwater march took place at depths of up to 12 meters, and we swam several hundred meters to demonstrate our patriotism in a really unique way.
**Editor:** That sounds incredible! What inspired you to combine diving with a patriotic display?
**Leszek Skwara:** This idea happened spontaneously, along with my friend Jacek Jackowiak. I’ve been diving with the flag for about ten years, off and on, and we’ve been doing this particular event annually for four years now. It’s a way to express love for our country while engaged in a sport we are passionate about.
**Editor:** It’s fascinating how you merge sport with patriotism. How did the participants feel about this event?
**Leszek Skwara:** The participants were thrilled! It’s not every day that you can swim with flags underwater. It creates a sense of camaraderie and a shared purpose. Everyone on the surface also joined in celebrating, enjoying traditional delicacies and warm drinks while listening to patriotic songs.
**Editor:** What were some of the highlights for you personally during this event?
**Leszek Skwara:** Personally, emerging from the water with the flag, surrounded by fellow divers, is an unforgettable experience. Seeing the smiles and feeling the energy from the audience on the shore made it even more special.
**Editor:** That’s wonderful to hear. How do you think events like this contribute to a sense of community and patriotism?
**Leszek Skwara:** They show that patriotism can take many forms, even underwater. It’s a chance for people to come together, share their passions, and celebrate their heritage in a different way. Events like this create lasting memories and a stronger connection to our homeland.
**Editor:** Certainly! It’s amazing how you’ve created such a meaningful and memorable event. Any final thoughts you’d like to share?
**Leszek Skwara:** I hope this inspires others to find creative ways to express their patriotism. Whether it’s through diving, other sports, or community service, there are many outlets to show love for one’s country.
**Editor:** Thank you, Leszek, for sharing your insights and experiences with us. We hope to see more innovative celebrations like this in the future!
**Leszek Skwara:** Thank you for the opportunity to share our passion!
