So true, even the Germans were no more than 50% mechanized during the war. The horse continued to be a primary source of moving materials all through WW2 for Germany, Russia, as well as Poland till she fell.
"I have seen photos of Polish Cav assaulting German Panzers only to be left slaughtered. Sheer madness. Sheer stupidity. Someone somewhere along the chain of command should have realized the futility."
You mean you have seen fascist propaganda? There was even an Italian-made propaganda video of "Polish" cavalry trying to charge german tanks with lances.
Now how about some facts they didn't teach you in school(by the way, I'm into weaponry in a big way). Poland used anti-tank rifles, not sabers against panzers, and with great effect. Have you wondered why the german tanks at the very beginning of the war had white balkenkruz (crosses) painted on the hull and turret, and later had black, like the luftwaffe? The white crosses stood out so much that they made great targets for the Polish anti-tank gunners.
I think you would find this page interesting:
Invasion of Poland. Perhaps go to the myths section near the bottom.
Also, you'd probably be interested in the
marosczek anti-tank rifle, as well as
7TP light tank.
If you find that this neat, and want to know more, just tell me.
Regards