Washington, DC) — President Obama has awarded the Medal of Freedom to 15 distinguished individuals. The Medal of Freedom is the nation’s highest civilian honor. Opening a White House ceremony, the President said the recipients represent, quote, “the best of who we are and who we aspire to be.”
Obama said the life of former President George H.W. Bush is a testament to the notion that public service is a noble calling. Honoring author and poet Maya Angelou, the President said her voice has spoken to millions. Obama cited the integrity of billionaire investor Warren Buffett and praised him for his work on behalf of charitable causes.
The president described former St. Louis Cardinals baseball great Stan Musial as an untarnished icon. The President also honored former Boston Celtics basketball star Bill Russell, saying Russell defined the word “winner.” Other recipients included German Chancellor Angela Merkel, civil rights icon and Georgia Congressman John Lewis, labor leader John Sweeney and cellist Yo-Yo Ma.
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