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Biden Honors Hillary Clinton and Others with Presidential Medal of Freedom
Washington — In a significant ceremony, President Biden has announced the recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian award in the United States. The announcement, made on Saturday, heralds the recognition of 19 exceptional individuals, including former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, for their contributions to American society.
Hillary Clinton, who has held numerous high-profile positions including First Lady, U.S. Senator, and the first female presidential nominee from a major political party, is celebrated for her groundbreaking role in public service throughout the decades. The White House emphasized her historic significance and the many barriers she has broken.
Among the other distinguished recipients is a diverse group that includes actors Michael J. Fox and Denzel Washington, renowned musician Bono, Inter Miami soccer player Lionel Messi, and philanthropic heavyweight George Soros. Each of these individuals has made notable contributions in their respective fields, further enhancing the fabric of American culture and society.
Several honorees are being awarded posthumously, including former Attorney General Robert F. Kennedy, civil rights advocate Fannie Lou Hamer, ex-Defense Secretary Ash Carter, and former Michigan Governor George W. Romney. Their legacies continue to inspire and drive efforts for justice and equality.
The list of honorees also features ethologist Dr. Jane Goodall, basketball legend Magic Johnson, chef and humanitarian José Andrés, fashion icon Ralph Lauren, Vogue’s Anna Wintour, renowned science educator Bill Nye “The Science Guy,” LGBTQ advocate Tim Gill, billionaire philanthropist David Rubenstein, and George Stevens Jr., founder of the American Film Institute.
Notably, several of the awardees have been longstanding supporters of President Biden and the Democratic Party, reflecting a network of relationships built over years of public service and activism.
The White House will hold the awards ceremony later on Saturday, honoring these individuals not just for their accomplishments but for exemplifying the values of contribution and service. According to official statements, the Presidential Medal of Freedom is awarded to those who have made exemplary contributions to the United States’ prosperity, security, and public well-being, promoting significant societal or private endeavors.
Established in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy, the award has since recognized countless individuals whose actions resonate with the principles of freedom and service, leaving a lasting impact on both national and global scales.
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