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Wojciech Rychlewicz: A Polish Diplomat's Efforts to Save Lives During WWII

Wojciech Rychlewicz, a Polish diplomat born on June 24, 1903, in Mielnikowce, Podolien Governorate, left an indelible mark on history by saving the lives of thousands of Polish Jews during World War II. His selfless efforts as the head of the Consulate General of Poland in Istanbul from 1937 to 1941 and his subsequent involvement with the Anders Army are a testament to his bravery and dedication.

Rychlewicz came from a noble family from Podolia, where he was raised after taking part in the Polish-Soviet War at the age of seventeen. He settled in Vilnius, where he graduated from school and studied water engineering at the Technical University of Vilnius. After completing his studies, Rychlewicz joined the Polish diplomatic service, marking the beginning of a distinguished career that would span over two decades.

As the head of the Consulate General in Istanbul, Rychlewicz played a pivotal role in issuing false documents to Polish Jews, allowing them to travel to safe countries such as Palestine, Cyprus, and several North and South American nations. This act of bravery enabled thousands of people to escape the Holocaust, which was ravaging Europe at that time. In June 1938, Rychlewicz was awarded the Silver Cross of Merit for his services to the state.

Rychlewicz's most notable achievement during this period was his role in issuing false certificates stating that Polish Jews were Polish Catholics. This ruse allowed them to travel freely and escape persecution. His efforts were not limited to Istanbul; he also worked with the Polish military intelligence service, producing reports on Soviet and German activities in Turkey and the Middle East.

After leaving the consulate, Rychlewicz joined the Anders Army, a Polish military unit that fought against the Nazis during World War II. He continued his service as a second lieutenant in Vienna, where he supported Polish refugees. In 1946, he moved to London with his wife, where he lived until his death on December 8, 1964.

Rychlewicz's legacy is one of courage and selflessness. His efforts to save the lives of thousands of Polish Jews during World War II will always be remembered as a testament to the human spirit's capacity for good. He is buried at Sheen Cemetery in London,