Paul Rusesabagina demonstrated courage and compassion by sheltering people at the hotel he managed during the 1994 Rwandan genocide. By risking his own life, he helped to save the lives of more than 1,000 fellow Rwandans. Mr. Rusesabagina's selfless acts have inspired millions, and he represents the best of the human spirit.
Paul's story was captured in the movie Hotel Rwanda. Probably one of the best movies based on a true story that I've seen in a while. Paul very much deserves this medal.
If you haven't seen the movie, you should. It's powerful. I'm not easily affected by movies and such, but this one got to me.