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!
**Interview with Leszek Skwara from the Gwda Diving Association: A Unique Expression of Patriotism**
**Interview with Leszek Skwara from the Gwda Diving Association: A Unique Expression of Patriotism**
*Editor:* Leszek, thank you for joining us today to talk about this incredible event where members of the Gwda Diving Association and the Brda Association took the plunge into the water carrying Polish flags. Can you tell us what inspired this unique way of celebrating patriotism?
*Leszek Skwara:* Thank you for having me! The idea was indeed spontaneous. My friend Jacek Jackowiak and I wanted to find a way to express our love for our country while engaging in our passion for diving. I’ve been diving with the flag for about 10 years, and we decided to make this an annual event four years ago.
*Editor:* It sounds like a fantastic tradition! What should the participants expect during the event?
*Leszek Skwara:* Participants swim several hundred meters underwater, reaching depths of up to 12 meters. It’s a symbolic underwater march, and it’s truly breathtaking to see everyone carrying their flags deep beneath the waves. When we surface, we regroup and join the other event attendees on the shore, where traditional Polish delicacies like sour rye soup and St. Martin’s croissants await us.
*Editor:* That sounds amazing! How do you think this event differs from more traditional forms of patriotism celebrated on November 11?
*Leszek Skwara:* Our approach highlights that patriotism can take many forms, even underwater. While many people may be celebrating with fireworks or parades, we wanted to do something that combined our diving skills with our love for our homeland. It’s about experiencing nature and showcasing national pride in a way that is meaningful to us and memorable for everyone involved.
*Editor:* It certainly seems like it leaves a lasting impact! What feedback have you received from participants and attendees over the years?
*Leszek Skwara:* The feedback has been overwhelmingly positive. Many participants express that it’s a unique experience that they look forward to each year. The sense of camaraderie, both underwater and on the surface, really enhances the event. Also, the traditional food and the sounds of patriotic songs create a special atmosphere as we celebrate together.
*Editor:* It truly sounds like a remarkable way to celebrate a significant day in Poland. Do you have plans to continue this tradition in the future?
*Leszek Skwara:* Absolutely! We hope to keep this tradition alive and perhaps even expand it. The more people who can join us, the better! It’s about sharing our love for diving and our country, creating an event that resonates with both divers and non-divers alike.
*Editor:* Thank you, Leszek, for sharing this unique dive into patriotism with us. We look forward to hearing more about this event in the future!
*Leszek Skwara:* Thank you for having me. Dive safe and celebrate proudly!
