Poland launches summer Territorial Defense training for volunteers

The "Wakacje z WOT" (Vacations with Territorial Defense) program restarted on 30 July, when about 70 volunteers entered the barracks of the 10th Świętokrzyska Brigade of Territorial Defense in Kielce. They began a 16‑day basic course covering weapon safety, tactics, first aid, map navigation and a final tactical loop, ending with a ceremony on 14 August. Colonel Sławomir Machniewicz, commander of the brigade, said, "I am pleased that such a large group of young people has decided to spend part of their holidays starting their adventure with the uniform."

A final turnus of the nationwide program will run from 17 August to 12 September, offering a 27‑day training period in up to 90 units across Poland. Participants receive free accommodation, meals, uniform, medical care and insurance, and at the end receive a gross stipend of roughly 6 000 zł. The initiative targets young adults, especially recent graduates, and aims to provide practical military experience and financial support during the summer.