FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
German-American Hall of Fame (GAMHOF)
November 14, 2025 – New York, NY
German-American Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony Welcomes 100 Selected Guests for an Exceptional Evening in New York City
The German-American Hall of Fame (GAMHOF) proudly announced its successful completion of the 2025 Induction Ceremony on Thursday, November 13, at the Trump Tower Atrium in New York City. The event welcomed roughly 100 selected guests, including leaders from business, culture, academia, and German-American organizations, who gathered to honor this year’s inductees and celebrate over four centuries of German-American heritage.
This year’s inductees include:
Fred H. Langhammer, William Hetzler, Helmut Jahn, Walter Reinhold Schlage, and Friedrich K. F. Hecker.
PROGRAM HIGHLIGHTS
GAMHOF Chairman Ralf G. Bahr began the evening with a warm welcome, expressing gratitude to the honored guests and reaffirming the organization’s mission of honoring German-American accomplishments while inspiring future generations.
The ceremony was skillfully hosted by Hon. Brian G. Andersson, a former New York City Commissioner, who served as Master of Ceremonies. Hon. Herb Stupp, also a former New York City Commissioner, introduced and read the biographies of the inductees, providing historical context and highlighting the legacy of each honoree.
SPECIAL VIDEO MESSAGE FROM THE GERMAN CHANCELLOR
A major international highlight was the presentation of an almost three-minute video message from German Chancellor Friedrich Merz.
Chancellor Merz congratulated his longtime friend Fred H. Langhammer, praising his global leadership and decades of service to German-American business and cultural relations. He also commended GAMHOF for its dedication to highlighting the achievements of German Americans and preserving their role in shaping the United States.
HONOREE REFLECTIONS
Fred H. Langhammer:
“It is meaningful to be recognized by an institution dedicated to preserving the legacy of German-American achievement. The stories highlighted here remind us of the significant contributions that immigrants and their descendants make to the American experience.”
William Hetzler:
When we started GAMHOF over twenty years ago, our aim was to recognize the many individuals of German heritage who contributed to building this country. Tonight’s ceremony emphasizes the importance of continuing that mission and inspiring future generations.
The Hecker Family (accepted by Colonel William F. Hecker II and Bruce G. Hecker):
Our family is honored that GAMHOF recognizes Friedrich Hecker’s legacy. His dedication to democratic ideals, liberty, and civic responsibility continues to be a lasting legacy today.
SPECIAL TRIBUTE TO ARCHITECT HELMUT JAHN
A tribute honored the internationally renowned architect Helmut Jahn. His son, Evan Jahn, accompanied by his mother, Mrs. Deborah Jahn, traveled from Chicago to accept the award.
Evan Jahn reflected:
“My father always strongly believed in German-American dialogue. Throughout his career, he encouraged young architectural students from Germany to come to the United States, exposing them to the possibilities of American high-rise design and the innovative spirit of this country.
Event Media
Use the link below to see photos from the 2025 induction ceremony.
Videos
ABOUT GAMHOF
Founded in 2004, the Friends of the German-American Hall of Fame is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization based in New York City. Its mission is to recognize and promote the significant contributions of German Americans across more than four centuries of shared history.
MEDIA CONTACT
Herb Stupp
Vice Chair, Friends of the German-American Hall of Fame
Email: herbstupp@gmail.com
Phone: 917-837-1867