(MENAFN- UkrinForm) According to Ukrinform's correspondent in New York, the event was organized by the U.S. Foreign Council of the public initiative Order of Saint Panteleimon.

During the ceremony, several individuals and organizations were recognized for exceptional compassion and humanitarian leadership.

This year's awardees included American physician Bill Chester and the international organization Rotary International, represented by its CEO John Hewko.

The ceremony concluded with a musical tribute dedicated to Ukrainian veterans and heroes of Ukraine.

U.S. Foreign Council President Tetiana Tymkiv told Ukrinform that this year's laureates embody the values of healing and mercy that are central to the organization's mission.

She explained that while the Order of Saint Panteleimon was originally awarded to the best doctors in Ukraine, for the past two years it has also been presented to foreign doctors and organizations, "since with the start of the full-scale war, significant aid has been coming to Ukrainian hospitals from other countries."

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According to Tymkiv, foreign councils have now been established in more than ten countries.

The Order of Saint Panteleimon for professionalism and compassion is the highest public award granted for exceptional achievements in healthcare and contributions to the spiritual and physical development of Ukrainian society. The award, named after the patron saint of doctors, was first presented in 2009 by Ukraine's Ministry of Health to individuals recognized for outstanding accomplishments and contributions to the development of healthcare and medical science.

As Ukrinform reported, in September this year, the award ceremony was held for the first time in Australia, where Australians and organizations were honored for their contributions to humanitarian and medical aid for Ukraine.

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