General Pulaski Memorial Day is observed in the United States every October 11 to honor General Kazimierz (Casimir) Pulaski, a Polish hero of the American Revolutionary War, known as the father of the American cavalry. This holiday was first proclaimed in 1929 by President Herbert Hoover, with the date chosen to mark the anniversary of Pulaski's death at the age of 34 from wounds sustained during the Siege of Savannah in 1779. Celebrations include the annual Pulaski Day Parade held on Fifth Avenue in New York City, which began in 1937, and a three-day celebration known as Pulaski Days in Grand Rapids, Michigan. The observance not only commemorates General Pulaski but also honors Polish American heritage. It is important to note that General Pulaski Memorial Day should not be confused with Casimir Pulaski Day, which is celebrated in Illinois on the first Monday in March.