On Tuesday, the Grand Duke honoured six people at the Philharmonie as part of Luxembourg's National Day celebrations. The recipients were recognised for achievements in fields ranging from gastronomy and sport to cinema and entrepreneurship. Two men also received medals for exceptional courage.
Eugene Keiler and Marko Sorgen saved a man who had fallen into the Moselle River and successfully resuscitated him. For their bravery, they were awarded the Medal of Honour for Acts of Courage.
Anne Knepper, a 29-year-old restaurateur who was named Gault & Millau's 'Young Chef of the Year', was appointed Knight of the Order of the Oak Crown. She described the distinction as recognition for all young entrepreneurs who dare to take the plunge.
Actress Vicky Krieps, who has received numerous honours throughout her career, said this one held a special meaning. She described such distinctions as "a postcard from one's homeland" and added that Luxembourg's greatest strength is its democracy and openness to the world.
Sprinter Patrizia Van der Weken was also appointed Knight of the Order of the Oak Crown for representing Luxembourg on the international stage. She said the recognition meant even more to her than standing on a medal podium and called it a tremendous honour.
René Closter, founder of Air Rescue, admitted he was among those most surprised to be recognised. When asked what it takes to make a project like Air Rescue succeed, he recalled how his dog would stare at the fridge until it got a sausage. His message was simple: "If you can dream it, you can do it."
