Slovakia is celebrating two significant anniversaries this year. It has been 100 years since the establishment of Czechoslovakia and 25 years since the existence of the Slovak Republic. These historic milestones are the result of a strong and friendly relationship between our countries and people. We will always be grateful for the contribution of Slovak Americans, as well as their American compatriots, including President Woodrow Wilson, to the creation of Czechoslovakia in 1918.
The United States played a crucial role in assisting our young Republic in its journey toward the trans-Atlantic community after the breakdown of the Iron Curtain. The transformation and integration of Slovakia, which has brought unprecedented levels of freedom, security, and prosperity, was significantly supported from this side of the Atlantic. As we commemorate the anniversary of the creation of the Slovak Republic in 1993, it is essential to recognize the significance of building strong Slovak-American relations for our national emancipation and success.
On this occasion, Ambassador of the Slovak Republic to the United States Ivan Korčok awarded personalities and an organization who have significantly contributed to the development of Slovak-American relations with a commemorative medal bearing the name of the 28th President of the United States, Woodrow Wilson. The awardees included:
Jan T. Vilček & Marica Vilček, Founders of the Vilcek Foundation
Mary MacPherson, President & CEO of the Slovak-American Foundation
Ľuboš Pástor, Professor at the University of Chicago Booth School of Business
Peter Bondra, Former NHL Player & Slovak National Team leader
Cecilia F. Rokusek, President & CEO at National Czech and Slovak Museum and Library
