Press release

October 22, 2026, No. 170

Decades of Service to Others: BRK Medal of Honor Awarded

Deputy District Administrator Thomas W. Holz Honors Long-Standing Volunteer Service

Bad Tölz-Wolfratshausen/Beuerberg District. For 25, 40, or even 50 years, they have been dedicated to helping others: At a ceremony hosted by the Bad Tölz-Wolfratshausen District Office at the “Zur Mühle” restaurant in Beuerberg, long-standing members of the Bavarian Red Cross (BRK) were awarded state honors from the Free State of Bavaria. Deputy District Administrator Thomas W. Holz, a member of the State Parliament (MdL), praised the honorees’ extraordinary dedication and loyalty.

“The true strength of the Red Cross cannot be measured by vehicles, buildings, or technical equipment. The true strength of the Red Cross lies in the people who dedicate themselves to helping others,” Holz emphasized in his commemorative address. Whether in the emergency response teams, the water rescue service, the Youth Red Cross, or in numerous behind-the-scenes roles, the volunteers have made an indispensable contribution to safety and social cohesion in the county. It is by no means a given to invest one’s free time over decades, take on responsibility, and put personal interests aside. “An award of honor cannot compensate for the countless hours you have devoted to helping others. But it can bring to light what often happens behind the scenes.”

Holz, himself a member of the Mountain Rescue Service and deputy district chair of the BRK, therefore also thanked the families whose understanding and support had, in many cases, made such long-standing commitment possible in the first place. At the same time, he described the honorees as important role models for younger generations. Especially in times when it is becoming increasingly difficult to recruit people for long-term volunteer work, their experience and their genuine willingness to help are invaluable. “You haven’t just talked about how important humanity, a willingness to help, and solidarity are. You’ve lived by these values,” said Holz. In doing so, he added, the honorees have made the district a more humane, safer, and more livable place over the decades.

Marlis Peischer
Press Officer / Head of the Press Office
Bad Tölz-Wolfratshausen District Office