The Jozef Suchy Medal 2019 has been awarded to WFO past president Juan J Leceta.
Named in honour of the WFO treasurer and former president Jozef Suchy, who passed away suddenly last year, the medal is awarded by the World Foundry Organization to an individual who has exhibited meritorious services to the WFO.
Juan J Leceta served for several years on the WFO executive committee and has travelled the world promoting the organisation and its global collaborative objectives.
In announcing this year’s worthy recipient, general secretary EurIng Andrew Turner FICME said: “Juan J Leceta guided the WFO through a difficult period, with exceptional diplomacy and he helped to drive the organisation and develop the WFO’s relationship with Spain and Mexico. His advice, support and negotiation skills were invaluable throughout his term on the executive board and to the current day.”
The medal was presented at the WFO Technical Forum and International Foundry Congress in Portoroz, Slovenia in September.
In accepting the award Juan J Leceta said: “This organisation was established in Paris in 1926 and will soon celebrate its centenary. However, reaching 100 years of age doesn’t happen by chance. It means many people have been doing a good job, updating and innovating constantly about how to have a dynamic association.
“I have been in this industry for 62 years, so I have seen many changes. I accept the award on behalf of our previous colleagues. This is important as we have the present because of the past. I urge you not to be spectators but to be fully active participants.
“Our colleagues who are not with us today are very much still here because of what they represent in the WFO. We especially remember George Booth, Leonard Koslov, Itsuo Ohnaka, Jozef Suchy and Bob Jordan. Remember, we don’t play solo music we have choral music – we are a team. I am honoured to receive this award, thank you.”
He also recognised the contribution of his wife Anna who has supported his work with the WFO. “I think we should all thank our life partners for being so generous to share our love for them with our love for this organisation and this industry.”
He is pictured receiving the medal from current WFO president Mark Fenyes FICME and general secretary EurIng Andrew Turner FICME.