Bernard Świerczyna

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Bernard Świerczyna, born on February 23, 1914, in Chropaczów, grew up in a patriotic family and spent his youth in Mysłowice. He graduated from the Tadeusz Kościuszko State Men's Gymnasium, actively engaging in literary pursuits, scouting, and various patriotic organizations. After completing military training, he participated in defensive battles in September 1939, leading to his capture and internment in a POW camp in Łambinowice. Upon his release, he joined the resistance movement. In spring 1940, he was arrested again and sent to Auschwitz, where he received the prisoner number 1393. Working in the clothing warehouse for nearly five years, he dedicated himself to the camp's resistance efforts, becoming a leader and close collaborator of notable figures like Witold Pilecki and Kazimierz Rawicz. In autumn 1944, he attempted to escape to report camp atrocities but was betrayed. This led to his imprisonment in block 11, where he endured brutal interrogations and torture before being executed by hanging. Bernard left behind his wife, Adela, and their four-year-old son, Felicjan, to whom he secretly sent a tale titled "Bajka o Zajączku, Lisie i Kogutku" from the camp.