Cologne honors committed citizens with the Federal Order of Merit!

Cologne honors committed citizens with the Federal Order of Merit!

On Wednesday, a particularly honorable event was held in the Hansasaal of Cologne City Hall. Mayor Henriette Reker honored three outstanding citizens with the Federal Cross of Merit on ribbon out of. In the presence of the families of the honorees, she honored their long-standing and remarkable commitment to the common good.

One of the most notable awards went to 85-year-old Janka Betz. This passionate former nurse has worked for children and those in need for decades. She organized senior cafés and was involved in tutoring children. Her motherly manner and her tireless commitment have helped many people in Cologne.

Bernd Flamming, 75 years old and native of Hamburg, also received the Federal Cross of Merit. During his time as a teacher, Flamming not only organized sponsored runs, but also founded the Kinderhilfe Osteuropa association. Through this initiative, he brought relief supplies to various Eastern European countries, bringing light into the lives of many. His passion for child and youth welfare is obvious and shows how important commitment to society is.

Cultural contribution by Irmin Schmidt

Another worthy winner is the Berlin-born musician and composer Irmin Schmidt. The founder of the well-known band “Can”, which was founded in Cologne in 1968, was honored for his cultural commitment. His contributions to the Krautrock movement and improvisational music have had a lasting impact not only on the Cologne but also on the international music scene. Mayor Reker emphasized how important these cultural influences are for Cologne.

Commitment beyond the city limits

But there were important awards not only in Cologne. On September 2nd, the sheep flounder Heiko Frost was honored in Kiel, which also... Federal Cross of Merit on ribbon received. His voluntary work since 2015 has focused on inclusion and the development of educational models. As deputy chairman of the Association of German School Camps, he organized trips abroad for young people, for example. His tireless efforts promote understanding and exchange with German minorities in Eastern Europe.

Another ray of hope was given by the award of the Great Cross of Merit to Prof. Dr. Annedore Prengel visible. Her groundbreaking research has revolutionized the educational landscape in Germany. She recognized the importance of a pedagogy of diversity and advocated for an inclusive education system in which every child is given equal opportunities. Her publications and teaching materials are now used internationally in countries such as Costa Rica and Belgium.

These awards are not only personal achievements for those honored, but also recognition for all those who work for the well-being of others every day. They are living proof that with commitment and heart you can achieve a lot - both in culture and in education and social work.