Bieszczady Border Guard Unit

The Bieszczady Border Guard Unit named after Brigadier General Jan Tomasz Gorzechowski, established on May 16, 1991, following the dissolution of the Bieszczady Brigade of the Border Protection Forces, plays a key role in protecting the Polish-Ukrainian and Polish-Slovak borders. The unit is headquartered in Przemyśl and employs a large number of officers and staff. On November 29, 1992, the unit received its first banner, and on May 16, 1999, it adopted the name of its patron, General Jan Tomasz Gorzechowski. In the context of relations with neighboring countries, the unit supports international cooperation, including through the Polish-Ukrainian Consultation Point and the Polish-Slovak Center for Police and Customs Cooperation in Barwinek, enabling effective information exchange and joint security operations. The organizational structure of the unit has evolved over time and currently includes various departments responsible for operational, coordination, and administrative tasks. Over the years, the unit’s infrastructure has also changed, with buildings in Przemyśl being adapted for new functions, such as a "Detention Center for Deportation" or a "Guarded Center for Foreigners." From a cultural perspective, the naming of the unit after its patron and the ceremonies associated with the presentation of the banner highlight the importance of tradition and history, as well as the role the Border Guard plays in Poland's national security. Interestingly, the Bieszczady Border Guard Unit collaborates with European agencies such as Frontex, as well as with local authorities, contributing to the building of trust and professional relationships between services. Through its diverse activities, the unit not only serves as a guardian of the borders but also as an institution fostering connections between Poland and its neighbors.