Poland’s embassy in Kyiv is investigating the online auction of a Virtuti Militari order, deemed “scandalous” by the Institute of National Remembrance.
Institute of National Remembrance Raises Concerns
The Institute of National Remembrance reported on March 17th that a Virtuti Militari order was offered for sale on a Ukrainian internet portal. The order’s serial number identifies the recipient as Captain Juliusz Roman Heinzel, a decorated veteran of the war with Bolsheviks.
The Institute described the auction as “scandalous” and protested the commercialization of an item potentially recovered from the site of war crimes.
Embassy Investigates and Appeals for Caution
The Polish embassy in Ukraine confirmed it is in contact with Ukrainian authorities to investigate the circumstances surrounding the auction and secure the decoration. They are also verifying its authenticity.
The embassy appealed for restraint, urging individuals to refrain from participating in the auction and to verify information before sharing it, warning that premature statements could aid enemy propaganda. They recommend disseminating only official communications.
Heinzel’s Story and Potential Origin of the Order
According to the Institute of National Remembrance, the condition of the order suggests it may have been recovered during the search for victims of war crimes. The Institute protested against the “morally reprehensible commercialization” of a relic from one of the largest Soviet crimes of World War II.
The Institute appealed to the portal hosting the auction to end it and return the order to Polish authorities.
Who Was Juliusz Roman Heinzel?
Juliusz Roman Heinzel commanded a squadron in the 16th Greater Poland Uhlan Regiment and was awarded the Silver Cross of the Virtuti Militari, as well as other medals for his bravery and service during the 1918-1921 war.
He rejoined active duty in September 1939, but was captured by the Soviets. In the spring of 1940, he was transferred from the Starobielsk camp to Kharkiv, where he was murdered by the NKVD and buried near the village of Piatihatky, along with approximately 3,800 other Polish officers.
Heinzel was buried at the Cemetery of Victims of Totalitarianism in Kharkiv, which opened on June 17, 2000.
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