Awarding Our Nation's Highest Civilian Honor

The Presidential Medal of Freedom, established 50 years ago by President John F. Kennedy, is our nation’s highest civilian honor. The medal has been presented to more than 500 individuals who have made especially "meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors."

Yesterday, in a ceremony at the White House, President Obama added 16 names to that distinguished list.

Learn more about these incredible Americans.

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