The Polish Post and the Grow Up with Us Foundation join forces after the tragic death of Major Maciej Krakowian
Warsaw, September 2025 – The planned issuance of postage stamps commemorating the 100th anniversary of the Military Aviation Academy and the Radom 2025 Air Show was suspended following the tragic crash of an F-16 aircraft during rehearsals for the event. Maj. Maciej "Slab" Krakowian, leader of the F-16 Tiger Demo Team Poland, died in the crash. The pilot was posthumously promoted to the rank of lieutenant colonel.
The suspension of the introduction into circulation of postage stamps and First Day Covers (a special envelope containing a postage stamp postmarked on the first day of circulation of that stamp) related to this event was a gesture of respect for his memory and solidarity with his family and friends.
The Polish Post, in cooperation with the Grow Up with Us Foundation, has decided to resume issuing stamps, giving them a new, social purpose.
According to the signed letter of intent, half of the gross proceeds from the sale of the stamps will be donated to the Foundation, which has long supported the education and development of children of soldiers, officers, and public service employees killed or injured in the line of duty, and promotes the idea of strengthening the ethos of public service. The issue includes two stamps designed by Roch Stefaniak – one dedicated to the anniversary of the School of Eaglets in Dęblin, the other promoting the Air Show. A total of 180,000 stamps will be issued.
The Grow Up with Us Foundation is the only non-governmental organization in Poland that, for over 15 years, has been inspiring various social and business groups to work together to help the children of firefighters, mountain rescuers, soldiers, police officers, and other public service officers and employees who have died or been injured in the line of duty. The Foundation's primary goal is to provide long-term support to children throughout their education, up to the age of 25. Thanks to the Foundation's work, children receive regular, comprehensive educational and psychological support, financial support, and preparation for entering the job market. Since its establishment, the Grow Up with Us Foundation has provided care to over 300 children.
The Foundation's mission is also to strengthen the ethos of public service. As an organizer of exhibitions, social campaigns, debates, and the Eagle of Public Service Competition, the Foundation brings the public closer to the work of people who dedicate their lives to serving others. Learn more about the Dorastaj z Nami Foundation at www.dorastajznami.org.