The Ellis Island Medal of Honor was established in 1986 to pay tribute to the immigrant experience and individual achievement, and are awarded to U.S. citizens from various ethnic backgrounds. The honorees are awarded for showing outstanding qualities in their personal and professional lives, yet maintaining the richness of their particular heritage. The award ceremony is held each May on Ellis Island. The Ellis Island Medal of Honor is recognized by the United States House of Representatives and the Senate, and as such the names of all winners are listed in the Congressional Record.
Notable medalists
Notable Medalists include:
- William Jefferson Clinton
- Hillary Rodham Clinton
- George H.W. Bush
- Gerald Ford
- Bob Hope
- Tony Blair
- Henry Kissinger
- Lou Papan
- Admiral Robert J. Natter, USN (Ret.)
