A Ginkgo Tree Honors the Heroic Sacrifice of Alptuğ Sözen in Freigericht
A ginkgo tree in Freigericht Citizens’ Bank Park stands as a symbol of gratitude and remembrance for Alptuğ Sözen. The tree was planted in 2019 near his parents’ home, marking the site where the 17-year-old Hanau student lost his life while attempting a heroic rescue.
On November 13, 2018, Alptuğ Sözen was at Frankfurt’s Ostendstraße S-Bahn station when he saw a helpless man on the tracks. Without hesitation, he rushed to pull the man to safety. Unfortunately, Alptuğ was struck by an oncoming train and lost his life during the rescue.
The city of Hanau has not forgotten Alptuğ's extraordinary courage and selfless act. On the anniversary of his death, the city honors him. In 2019, the city council posthumously awarded him Hanau’s Golden Honorary Plaque during a memorial ceremony at his former school, Ludwig-Geißler-Schule. A memorial plaque for Alptuğ was also placed at the school, though the artist's name remains unknown.
The ginkgo tree in Freigericht Citizens’ Bank Park serves as a lasting reminder of Alptuğ Sözen's heroic deed. His actions that fateful day embody the best of human spirit, and his memory continues to inspire his community.
