Volunteer heroes: Kitzingen men honored with Bavarian State Medal

Volunteer heroes: Kitzingen men honored with Bavarian State Medal

On June 26, 2025, a special event was celebrated in the Kitzingen district: two volunteers were awarded the Bavarian State Medal in bronze. Gerhard Ackermann from Rüdenhausen and Jochen Kramer from Castell have contributed to the development of their communities over the years. It is an award that not only shows appreciation, but is also a sign of the importance of volunteering in rural areas, as radiogong.com reports.

Gerhard Ackermann, mayor of Rüdenhausen since 2008, initiated the village renewal and is also actively involved in the fire department and the music band. Jochen Kramer, who held the office of mayor in Castell for many years, is not only known for his municipal activities, but has also written an impressive 1,500-page village chronicle that documents the history of his community. At the award ceremony in the Kitzingen District Office, District Administrator Tamara Bischof emphasized how important the pair's commitment to their communities is.

The focus is on volunteer work

The Bavarian State Medal, which has been awarded since the 1950s, is recognition of exceptional achievements in the field of rural development. On May 19, 2025, 39 personalities were honored with this medal in Munich, including the two Kitzinger Prize winners. In a solemn ceremony, head of office Hubert Bittlmayer presented the awards on behalf of Agriculture Minister Michaela Kaniber. This emphasized the essential role that voluntary work plays in the design and development of rural areas, as bayern.de added.

The medal is awarded in different categories. Six silver state medals were awarded to particularly committed individuals who are active on the boards of associations or in Integrated Rural Development (ILE). Esa, who are responsible for village renewal and land reorganization, are committed to the sustainable use of resources.

Exemplary personalities

The list of award winners shows how far the voluntary commitment extends. Among other things, people from different regions of Bavaria receive recognition for their achievements. In Lower Franconia, where Ackermann and Kramer were also honored, we also find other honorees who are actively involved in their communities to make them more lively and sustainable.

The award for the two men from the Kitzingen district is not only recognition of their personal achievements, but also an incentive for many others to get involved in their homeland. Because, as the saying goes: “There is something going on” in our villages, and everyone can make a contribution. The examples of Gerhard Ackermann and Jochen Kramer show that commitment and passion can achieve a lot.

Further information about the honored personalities and their commitment can be found on the website of stmelf.bayern.de.