Westerplatte is a narrow peninsula located at the entrance to the Port of Gdańsk (then the Free City of Danzig), a politically charged region in the interwar years. Following World War I, the Treaty of Versailles had designated Gdańsk as a free city, independent of both Poland and Germany, but with Poland maintaining certain economic and military rights.

The Westerplatte Military Transit Depot was established in 1924, allowing Poland to station troops and store munitions in the area. By 1939, it was garrisoned by 182 Polish soldiers, commanded by Major Henryk Sucharski and his deputy, Captain Franciszek Dąbrowski. They faced a dire situation as tensions with Germany escalated, knowing that Westerplatte would likely be a key target in the event of war.

At 4:45 a.m., the German battleship Schleswig-Holstein, which had arrived in Gdańsk under the guise of a ceremonial visit, opened fire on Westerplatte. This marked the official beginning of World War II.
The Polish defenders, though heavily outnumbered and outgunned, quickly mobilized. Despite relentless shelling and infantry assaults, they repelled the initial German attacks, inflicting heavy casualties on the invaders. The resilience of the Polish soldiers stunned the Germans, who had expected to capture the outpost within hours.

For the next seven days, the garrison at Westerplatte withstood continuous bombardments from land, sea, and air. The Germans employed artillery, mortars, and aerial bombing to wear down the defenders, but the Poles held firm, making strategic use of their fortified positions.

Key Moments of Resistance

• A Tactical Defense: The Polish soldiers used their knowledge of the terrain and fortified bunkers to their advantage, forcing the Germans into a costly and prolonged siege.
• Communication and Morale: Despite being cut off, the garrison maintained communication with Polish military leaders and refused repeated German demands for surrender. Their morale was bolstered by the knowledge that their stand was delaying the enemy and inspiring resistance elsewhere.

The Turning Point

By September 7, the Polish defenders were out of ammunition, supplies, and food. Major Sucharski, recognizing the futility of further resistance and concerned for his men’s lives, made the difficult decision to surrender. The garrison had withstood overwhelming German forces for a week, delaying their advance and proving the tenacity of the Polish military.

The battle ended with the capture of the surviving Polish defenders, who were taken as prisoners of war. Despite the defeat, the defense of Westerplatte became a powerful symbol of Polish resistance and courage.

• Casualties: The Polish garrison suffered about 15 deaths and 40 wounded, while German casualties were significantly higher, estimated at 200–400 killed or wounded.
• Legacy: The bravery of the Westerplatte defenders was celebrated across Poland and around the world, becoming a rallying point for those resisting Nazi aggression.

The Battle of Westerplatte was more than just a military engagement; it was a symbolic act of defiance that set the tone for Poland’s resistance during the war.

1. A Moral Victory
While the battle was a tactical defeat, the defenders’ extraordinary stand against overwhelming odds inspired Poles and demonstrated to the world that Poland would not capitulate easily.

2. A Prelude to Global Conflict
The battle marked the opening shots of World War II, signaling the beginning of a global conflict that would reshape the world. Westerplatte became a stark reminder of the high stakes involved and the human cost of war.

3. A Symbol of Unity and Bravery
The defense of Westerplatte embodied the spirit of solidarity and determination that defined Poland’s resistance throughout the war. It became a point of national pride and a symbol of hope in the face of adversity.

Today, Westerplatte is a national monument and museum, dedicated to preserving the memory of the battle and its significance in Polish history.

Visitors can explore:

• The Monument to the Defenders of the Coast, a towering structure honoring the bravery of the garrison.
• Ruins of the Barracks and Bunkers, which bear the scars of the battle.
• Exhibits and Memorials detailing the events of September 1939 and the broader context of World War II.

Each year, commemorations are held at Westerplatte on September 1, drawing visitors and dignitaries from around the world to honor the sacrifice and courage of the defenders.

The Battle of Westerplatte stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of the Polish people. Though outnumbered and outgunned, the defenders of Westerplatte held their ground, delaying the advance of the German war machine and inspiring a nation.

Their legacy lives on, reminding us that even in the darkest moments, the human spirit can endure and triumph. The story of Westerplatte is not just a chapter in Poland’s history—it is a universal symbol of courage, sacrifice, and the fight for freedom.