President Joe Biden recently honored nineteen distinguished individuals with the Presidential Medal of Freedom
President Joe Biden recently honored nineteen distinguished individuals with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian award, during a ceremony at the White House on January 4, 2025. This event marked Biden’s final presentation of the medals during his presidency.
Notable Recipients: The list of honorees includes a diverse array of figures from various fields:
Hillary Clinton: Former Secretary of State, recognized for her historic contributions to public service and her role as the first woman nominated for president by a major political party.
Bono: U2 frontman and activist, honored for his efforts in social justice and poverty alleviation.
Lionel Messi: Renowned soccer player, celebrated for his athletic achievements and global influence in sports.
José Andrés: Chef and humanitarian, acknowledged for founding World Central Kitchen, which provides disaster relief through food distribution.
Jane Goodall: Conservationist and ethologist, recognized for her groundbreaking work in animal behavior and environmental advocacy.
Denzel Washington and Michael J. Fox: Actors celebrated for their contributions to entertainment and advocacy, particularly in health awareness.
George Soros: Philanthropist known for his significant contributions to social causes and democracy.
Posthumous Awards: Four medals were awarded posthumously to notable figures:
Robert F. Kennedy: Former Attorney General and Senator, remembered for his fight against racial segregation.
Fannie Lou Hamer: Civil rights activist who played a crucial role in the Voting Rights Movement.
Ash Carter: Former Secretary of Defense, recognized for his service in national security.
George W. Romney: Former Michigan Governor, honored for his public service contributions.
During the ceremony, President Biden emphasized that these individuals exemplified leadership and made extraordinary contributions to society. He stated that they “have made America and the world a better place” through their dedication to various causes.
This event not only celebrated individual achievements but also highlighted the values of decency and fairness that Biden believes are essential in leadership.
During the ceremony, President Biden emphasized the contributions of these individuals to society, stating that they are “great leaders who have made America and the world a better place.” He noted their exemplary efforts in various domains that reflect the values and security of the United States.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom was established in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy and is awarded based on recommendations from an external advisory panel. It recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions to society through public service, cultural achievements, or humanitarian efforts.
