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The Ellis Island Medal of Honor is an American award founded by the Ellis Island Honors Society (EIHS) (formerly known as the National Ethnic Coalition of Organizations (NECO)), which is presented annually to American citizens, both native-born and naturalized.
The Medal recognizes — in the organization's words —
individuals who have made it their mission to share with those less fortunate, their wealth of knowledge, indomitable courage, boundless compassion, unique talents and selfless generosity. They do so while acknowledging their debt to their ethnic heritage as they uphold the ideals and spirit of America.
Past medalists include U.S. presidents, world leaders, Nobel Prize winners, and other leaders of industry, education, the arts, sports and government, along with everyday Americans.