Events >> Democracy Service Medal >> 2002 Democracy Service Medal
A Farewell Tribute to Jan Nowak

Group photo From the very inception of the NED in 1983 until the momentous events of 1989, Jan Novak was intimately associated with the Endowment’s efforts to aid the movement for democracy in Poland. He was a powerful advocate of aid to the Solidarity trade union movement and of programs to provide assistance to Polish political prisoners and democratic intellectuals. As a result of his leadership and commitment, the assistance to many of the Polish groups the NED helped was provided through the Polish American Congress.

In addition to being a steady source of advice and inspiration, Jan also helped mobilize political support for the NED in the Congress. He understood that the NED’s struggle to survive and grow was a critical aspect of the movement to bring democracy to Poland and the other countries of the Soviet Bloc.

With the triumph of that movement, to which his unswerving commitment and indomitable spirit made such an important contribution, Jan quickly turned his attention to the consolidation of the new Polish democracy and to the security of Poland in the heart of Europe. Here, too, his contribution has been unique and decisive. He has been tireless in pressing for every measure that would enhance Poland’s democratic institutions and political security, from the admission to NATO to the creation of the Polish-American Freedom Foundation. If Poland and the United States are today the closest of democratic allies, this is due in no small measure to Jan’s devotion to both countries and to their enduring friendship.

As Jan makes his final preparations to return to Poland, the National Endowment for Democracy is honored to pay tribute to a lifetime of outstanding work on its behalf by presenting him with the Democracy Service Medal.

Event Program:

Welcome, Carl Gershman

Remarks:
  • Paula Dobriansky
  • Stephen Solarz
  • Walt Raymond
  • Nadia Diuk
  • Eugenia Kemble

    Medal Presentation to Jan Nowak

    See Also:
      "Thank You, America", By Jan Nowak. Washington Post, Wednesday, July 3, 2002.

      "The return of a patriot", by Helle Dale, Washington Times, July 10, 2002

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