Story by Cpl. Lameen Witter

NEW YORK (May 14, 2005) -- Lt. Gen. Robert Magnus, Marine Corps Headquarters Deputy Commandant of Projects and Resources, was presented with one of this year's Ellis Island Medals of Honor by the National Ethnic Coalition of Organizations (NECO) at a ceremony held at Ellis Island, May 14.

According to NECO representatives, the Ellis Island Award, created by NECO in 1986, is given to those nominated by the organizations within NECO to acknowledge the culture-contributing efforts made by the nominees that eventually reflect highly on their individual ethnic culture and America.

"Tonight's event is an extraordinary event. I've already met scores of people who've succeeded in life as Americans from their diverse backgrounds. I'm proud to have been chosen to represent the U.S. Marines," said Magnus with a grin. Magnus was among 96 other nominees who received the recognition, to include the American Red Cross Chairman, Bonnie McElveen-Hunter, and actor, director and producer Penny Marshall, who were also in attendance of the ceremony.

"(The nominees) help those in need and remind us all that one person can make a difference...they're being honored today for making the world a better place," said NECO co-chairman, William D. Fugazy.

NECO is America's largest umbrella-like organization for over 250 ethnic groups. One of its main goals is to promote harmony between ethnicities while preserving and celebrating their diversities.