Overview

• Among the honorees are Schlager icon Jürgen Drews, rescue dog handler Anke Boysen, Allgäu cheesemaker Helmut Zweng and women’s rights activist Fadumo Korn
• In video interviews following the July 9 ceremony Drews described the award as “unbelievable” and broke down in tears as he reflected on his work with the Stiftung LebensBlicke
• Instituted in 1957 and limited to 2,000 living holders, the order recognizes exceptional service to the Free State of Bavaria across diverse fields
• New recipients have begun exercising privileges such as complimentary boat travel on Bavarian lakes and free entry to state palaces and museums
• Awardees expressed deep gratitude, noting that the distinction validates their community service, cultural contributions and social advocacy