Ahmet Ertegün Honored with Medal of State
September 26, 2009
Ahmet Ertegün – the most successful Turkish person in America – was honored with a Medal of State at the Plaza Hotel. Ahmet Ertegün’s wife Mica Ertegün accepted the Medal of State from Prime Minister Recep Tayyip Erdoğan on his behalf. Close family and friends of the Ertegün family, Turkish dignitaries and journalists attended this meaningful reception.
Prime Minister Erdoğan gave an articulate speech about Ahmet Ertegün’s life and his role as a prominent liaison between the U.S. and Turkey. Erdoğan spoke of how despite the fact that Ertegün was a Turkish-American he always kept the bond with his mother country very strong. The Prime Minister referred to Ahmet Ertegün as an ambassador who worked very hard to keep the connection between the U.S. and Turkey solid. Ahmet Ertegün was praised by Erdoğan for his relentless efforts in supporting Turkish youths in America through scholarships. In addition to these achievements, Ahmet Ertegün was also commended for his monumental accomplishments in the music industry.
Whether it was starting his music empire with a loan of $10,000 or integrating African Americans and whites through music, Ahmet Ertegün, one of the most influential Turkish-Americans will always be remembered as a legend.
