Congratulations to Police Commissioner Patrick J. Carroll, who was selected as a recipient of the 2016 Ellis Island Medal of Honor. The award will be presented at a ceremony on May 7. Commissioner Carroll’s parents passed through the Great Hall of Ellis Island over 86 years ago.

“The award is a validation to all immigrants that paved the way for us in the greatest country in the world. If they didn’t do it, we wouldn’t be here!” said Commissioner Carroll.

The Ellis Island Medals of Honor embody the spirit of America in their celebration of patriotism, tolerance, brotherhood and diversity. They recognize 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; all while maintaining the traditions of their ethnic heritage as they uphold the ideals and spirit of America. 2016 is the 30th anniversary of the Medal.

Since its founding in 1986, the Medal has been officially recognized by both Houses of Congress as one of our nation’s most prestigious awards. Honorees include six Presidents of the United States; Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, as well as esteemed Americans such as Frank Sinatra, Lee Iacocca, Quincy Jones, Muhammad Ali, Nobel laureate Elie Wiesel, Louis Zamperini and Rosa Parks, just to name a few.