On 31 January 2003, Dr Klaus Wilkens PhD, President of the German Lifesaving Association (DLRG), President of the European Regional Branch of ILS Vice-President of ILS was awarded the “Commanders Cross of the Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany” for his immense support and dedication to lifesaving on the national and international level. On behalf the lifesaving movement we wish to congratulate him for receiving this award.