Colonel Tadeusz Kopański, son of General Stanisław Kopański, passed away on 17 February 2025 at the age of 92.  In parallel with his distinguished British military career, Colonel Tadeusz Kopański remained deeply connected to his Polish heritage.

The son of General Stanisław Kopański, the legendary commander of the Polish Independent Carpathian Rifle Brigade at Tobruk and later of the 3rd Carpathian Infantry Division, Tadeusz proudly upheld the values and memory of the Polish armed forces in exile. His father also served as Chief of the General Staff to Commanders-in-Chief Generals Sosnkowski and Bór-Komorowski, following the death of General Władysław Sikorski.

Colonel Tadeusz Kopański was not only a decorated British officer but also an active member of the Polish independence diaspora in the UK. Throughout his life, he carried his legacy with pride, honouring both his father’s contribution and his own Polish roots.

A Requiem Mass will be held on Tuesday, 18th March at 11:30 am at St Catherine’s Catholic Church, Chipping Campden GL55 6DZ.

Tadzik was a true patriot, he always honoured his Polish heritage and was a devoted ambassador of Polish values. His contributions to both the military and the Polish émigré community will be remembered by all who had the privilege of knowing him.

If you are able to attend and join us in honouring his remarkable life and legacy, it would be deeply appreciated.

There is parking available at the Noel Arms. It’s best to park there before the service and walk to the church – turn left outside the pub and walk approximately 100 yards; the church will be on your right. Julian will be on hand to direct you to a seat, as a full congregation is expected.

Tadzik’s Short BIO:

Colonel Tadeusz (Tadzik) Kopański (7th August 1932 – 17th February 2025) – Military Service Resume
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11 July 1952 – Commissioned as Second Lieutenant, Royal Artillery.
Upon commissioning, he completed the Young Officers’ Course and was posted to the 2nd Regiment Royal Artillery, serving in Jordan and the Middle East.
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1 August 1954 – Promoted to Lieutenant.
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1963–1967 – Served as Adjutant to the King’s Troop Royal Horse Artillery, later holding the position of Troop Captain (1967–1968).
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1 August 1965 – Promoted to Captain.
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1968–1970 – Commanded ‘C’ Battery, Royal Horse Artillery (3 RHA).
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Subsequently served as Company Commander of Blenheim Company at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst.
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31 December 1972 – Promoted to Lieutenant Colonel.
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1972–1975 – Appointed Commandant of the Army Physical Training Corps, Aldershot.
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1975–1978 – Served as a Group Leader at the Regular Commissions Board, Westbury.
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1 September 1978 – Retired from the British Army on retired pay.

Post-military service:
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From around 1974, succeeded Bill Lithgow as Team Manager of the British Three-Day Event Team, and later became Head of the Pony Club.
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1986–1997 – Served as Executive Officer of The Pony Club.
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Cześć Jego Pamięci – Glory to His Memory!

Tomasz Wiśniewski