Greek kite surfer Anastasios Garipis has been awarded Hungary’s Gold Medal of Honour for rescuing a father and daughter from drowning off the coast of Epanomi, northern Greece, last summer.
At 21, Garipis became both the first Greek and the first foreign citizen to receive the distinction.
The dramatic rescue occurred when strong currents swept the Hungarian visitors out to sea.
Garipis, alongside Spanish wing-surfing champion Iset Segura, spotted the pair struggling and brought them safely back to shore. Segura was also recognised with the same honour.
The award ceremony took place at the Presidential Palace in Budapest, where Garipis received the medal from the President of Hungary. The event began with the Greek national anthem, highlighting the international significance of the occasion.
Garipis reflected on the recognition, saying, “I never imagined that a President of a Republic would honour me for something that, to me, was simply human nature, helping two people in need during a day of training.”
“Freedom is made of responsibility, the responsibility to make sure everyone reaches the shore. I accept this medal with gratitude, not just as a personal award, but as a tribute to the humanity that binds us all,” he added.
Garipis’ father, Stelios, shared his pride on social media, describing the ceremony as a “message of hope and solidarity for the Europe of the future.”
Attendees included the Greek Ambassador, Hungarian officials, Spanish representatives, Segura, and the rescued family, who expressed heartfelt gratitude.
Garipis’ courageous act now stands as a symbol of international solidarity and quiet heroism that transcends borders.
