1 September 2002 -- During the 51st All-American National Zdvyh ceremonies in Ellenville, New York,
the Iron Cross of Valor, CYM's highest commendation, was bestowed posthumously to the family of Ivan Skala of
the CYM's Myron Tarnawsky Branch in Passaic.
Ivan Skala received this commendation for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty
while serving as a Port Authority of New York and New Jersey Police Officer following the terrorist attack on the World Trade Center
in New York City on September 11, 2001.
The Iron Cross of valor is CYM's highest commendation. Ivan was the first CYM member ever to receive this honor,
which was officially bestowed by the XVI CYM World Congress in November, 2001 in Chicago.
Members of the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey and government officials were on hand to take part in the official ceremony.
World Executive President's Address at Iron Cross Ceremony
