A Brief History of the NYPD Pulaski Association

Casimir Pulaski Statue
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Phil Pulaski has 36 years of law enforcement experience including more than 33 years with the New York City Police Department (NYPD). As a Chief in the NYPD for more than 12 years and an executive (rank of captain and higher) for more than 22 years, Phil Pulaski managed patrol, investigative, counterterrorism, community affairs, quality of life and other public safety operations. During 2014, Phil Pulaski retired as Chief of Detectives of the NYPD where he was responsible for more than 3,600 personnel who, during 2013, investigated 256,000 felony and misdemeanor crimes (including 335 homicides), and arrested more than 39,000 offenders. To give back to the community as well as the law enforcement profession as a whole, Phil Pulaski held membership in the NYPD Pulaski Association. 

Dedicated to unselfish bravery and freedom, the association traces its roots to 1956, when 31 law enforcement members of Polish heritage sought to launch a Polish fraternal organization. Meeting at Prospect Hall in Brooklyn, they named their organization after Gen. Casimir Pulaski, the famous Polish freedom fighter. 

Leading by example, the association inspired the formation of other Polish entities in other areas of civil service. It also actively sought to expand its presence in New York and the nation. It established chapters in Chicago, Philadelphia, and more, and, today, it has more than 1,500 members. 

Among its primary activities, the association holds three annual programs. Its Medal for Valor is awarded to a police officer who accomplished a heroic act, the Pulaskian of the Year Award celebrates an individual who has distinguished himself or herself through exceptional action, and its scholarships provide more than $10,000 for higher education to children of its members. Additionally, through a partnership with the Polish Gift of Life Program, it brings Polish children who require heart surgery to the United States.