Twenty-one-year-old Greek kite surfer Anastasios Garipis has been awarded Hungary’s Gold Medal of Honor for rescuing a father and daughter from drowning last summer — becoming both the first Greek and the first foreign citizen ever to receive the distinction.
The dramatic rescue took place off the coast of Epanomi, northern Greece, when strong currents swept the Hungarian visitors out to sea. Garipis and his friend, Iset Segura, a Spanish wing-surfing champion, spotted the pair struggling and rushed to their aid, managing to bring both safely back to shore. Segura was also recognized with the same honor.
The award ceremony was held at the Presidential Palace in Budapest, where the Greek athlete received the medal from the President of Hungary. The event began with the Greek national anthem, underscoring the international spirit of the occasion.
Garipis’ father, Stelios, shared news of the three-hour ceremony on social media, expressing pride in his son’s act of courage, which, as he noted, “sent a message of hope and solidarity for the Europe of the future.”
Among those in attendance were the Greek Ambassador, Spyros Georgiles, Hungarian officials, representatives of the Spanish government, Segura, and the rescued family, who expressed heartfelt gratitude.
In his brief speech, Garipis reflected humbly on the recognition:
“I never imagined that a President of a Republic would honor me for something that, to me, was simply human nature — helping two people in need during a day of training.”
He added that the sea has taught him an enduring lesson:
“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.”
Garipis’ act of courage, born from instinct and empathy, now stands as a shining symbol of international solidarity — and of the quiet heroism that transcends borders.
