The recent deaths of two Polish soldiers during parachute training in the United States remind us that freedom is never free. These brave men died not in combat, but while preparing to defend their homeland and the cause of liberty. They were guests on American soil, training with allies under the NATO banner, working alongside our forces to stand ready against threats—especially from aggressive nations like Russia. Their sacrifice is a sober reminder of the risks that come with military readiness.
According to Poland’s Armed Forces, the soldiers died on September 19, 2025, during a night parachute exercise. Details are still scarce, but an investigation is underway. Poland’s Deputy Prime Minister called it “extremely sad news,” and rightly so. These were not ordinary exercises. Night parachute jumps are some of the most dangerous training missions, and only the most skilled soldiers are selected for them. These men were part of Poland’s special forces—highly trained, courageous, and committed.
Their deaths happened just days after a tragic helicopter crash in Washington state that killed four U.S. Army soldiers. Those soldiers were part of the 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment, also known as the “Night Stalkers.” This elite unit is known for operating under the cover of darkness. Like the Polish commandos, they were training to be ready for worst-case scenarios, not just for our nation, but for our allies as well.
The back-to-back losses raise tough questions. Are we doing enough to keep training safe? Are our procedures and equipment up to date? These are fair questions in a free country. But we must also remember an important truth: military training is dangerous by nature. You cannot train for war without risk. That’s the hard line between freedom and tyranny—one side trains to protect liberty, the other prepares to destroy it.
Poland has long been a loyal ally of the United States. In recent years, it has taken a strong stand against Russian aggression. Poland’s location near Russia and Ukraine gives it a front-row seat to the power struggles in Eastern Europe. That’s why Poland invests heavily in its military and works closely with American forces. Just this past March, Poland hosted NATO’s DRAGON-24 military exercise, proving again that it is a dependable partner in the defense of the West.
Whenever soldiers from different nations train together, they form bonds of trust and unity. These partnerships are not formed in speeches or treaties alone. They are forged through shared hardship. That’s what makes this tragedy even more meaningful. The Polish soldiers who died were not just training—they were standing shoulder to shoulder with American warriors. They were part of something bigger than themselves: the defense of freedom.
President Karol Nawrocki of Poland offered his condolences, saying, “May the good God take care of their souls.” It is a fitting prayer. In our fast-paced world, it’s easy to forget the real cost of peace. But moments like this force us to stop and reflect. They remind us that we owe much to the men and women in uniform—especially those who never make it home.
As we wait for the results of the investigation, we must not let this moment pass quietly. We should honor our allies and ensure their families are cared for. But we should also strengthen our resolve. If we wish to remain free, we must continue to train, to prepare, and to stand firm with those who share our values.
The Constitution gives the federal government the power to raise armies and defend the nation. But it also reminds us that this power comes with great responsibility. Training must be carried out with care and wisdom. Our republic depends on a strong defense, but it also depends on the truth. Let the facts of this case come to light, and let the memory of these brave men strengthen our commitment to liberty—for America, for Poland, and for all who choose freedom over fear.
