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On November 11, 2000, the Polish Community Center of Buffalo was renamed in honor of Lt. Col. Matt Urban. Lt. Col. Urban was arguably the most highly decorated soldier in American History. He grew up at 1153 Broadway, steps from the Polish Community Center. In his youth he participated in the Center's social activities and the traditions of the Broadway Fillmore Polonia neighborhood. The Center is proud to bear the name of a true American Hero.
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A plaque hangs in the Center's hallway as a reminder of this remarkable American Soldier's achievements.
It reads:
Lt. Col. Matt Urban
Lt. Col. Matt Urban was born on August 25, 1919 in Buffalo of Polish immigrants and raised at 1153 Broadway and attended School #57. He entered the U.S. Army in 1941, serving as a Captain with the 2nd Battalion, 60th Regiment, 9th Infantry Division in France during World War II. He received 28 decorations, including the Silver Star (1 OLC), Bronze Star (2OLC) with "V" device, Purple Heart (6 OLC) and NYS Conspicuous Cross with 4 Silver and 1 Gold Clusters. In 1980, the U.S. Congress awarded Lt. Col. Urban the nation's highest award for valor, the "Congressional Medal of Honor". President Jimmy Carter described Lt. Col. Urban as the "Greatest Soldier in American History". Lt. Col. Urban was laid to rest in Arlington National Cemetery in March 1995
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