sentences:  Klaus Herlitz (born 1947 in Berlin) and Eva Herlitz (born 1952 in Solingen) are the initiators of the "Buddy Bears"
   and "United Buddy Bears" activities, ""an international symbol of collaboration among nations of what can be achieved when we work together toward a better tomorrow"".On 1 October 2013, Eva and Klaus Herlitz received the "Verdienstorden des Landes Berlin" (Merit of the State of Berlin), for outstanding service to the state.For outstanding social engagement Eva and Klaus Herlitz received the "Bundesverdienstkreuz" (Order of Merit of the Federal Republic of Germany) medal on January 17, 2019.