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!
What inspired Leszek Skwara to combine diving with expressions of patriotism during the underwater march?
### Interview: Diving into Patriotism with Leszek Skwara
**Host:** Welcome to our special segment celebrating unique expressions of patriotism! Today, we have Leszek Skwara from the Gwda Diving Association, who participated in an extraordinary underwater march honoring Poland. Leszek, thank you for joining us.
**Leszek Skwara:** Thank you for having me! It’s a pleasure to share our experience.
**Host:** Let’s dive right into it—literally! Can you tell us what inspired the idea of an underwater march with Polish flags?
**Leszek Skwara:** Absolutely! The idea came to me about ten years ago, but it really took shape in the last four years. I was chatting with Jacek Jackowiak, and we thought, “Why not combine our love for diving with our patriotism in a unique way?” It’s a fun twist on traditional celebrations, allowing us to express our national pride underwater.
**Host:** That’s such a creative concept! What was the atmosphere like during the event?
**Leszek Skwara:** It was fantastic! After we sang the national anthem, a sense of camaraderie filled the air. As we plunged into the water carrying our flags, it felt exhilarating. Underwater, we swam several hundred meters at depths of up to 12 meters, which was both challenging and thrilling. Coming back up to join the other participants was a euphoric moment.
**Host:** It’s impressive to think about how you’re able to celebrate in such a unique way. What kind of response did you get from participants and spectators?
**Leszek Skwara:** The response was overwhelmingly positive. Everyone on the shore shared our excitement, and afterward, they enjoyed traditional Polish delicacies like sour rye soup and St. Martin’s croissants—definitely a warming treat after that chilly dive! The event melded our passions for diving, food, and national pride beautifully.
**Host:** It sounds like the perfect blend of culture and community spirit. What message do you hope this event sends about patriotism?
**Leszek Skwara:** I believe that patriotism can be expressed in many diverse forms. For us, diving with the flag symbolizes that love for our homeland doesn’t have to be loud; it can be quiet and deep, just like the sea. We want to inspire others to find their unique ways to celebrate national pride.
**Host:** Thank you, Leszek! It’s refreshing to see such innovative ways to honor one’s country. Your message is sure to encourage others to think outside the box when it comes to patriotism.
**Leszek Skwara:** Thank you for having me! I hope more people feel inspired to find their own ways to connect with their country.
**Host:** And to our viewers, whether through diving, cooking, or any other passion, remember that there are countless ways to express your love for your homeland. Happy diving!
