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The Presidential Medal of Freedom is america’ highest civilian honor, awarded to people who’ve made extraordinary contributions to the nation. From influential leaders to cultural icons, the medal acknowledges these whose achievements have had a long-lasting affect on society.
Right here’s what you might want to find out about this award and the people who’ve not too long ago acquired it in the beginning of this new yr.
Discover out extra under.
What Is the Presidential Medal of Freedom?
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the Nation’s highest civilian honor, offered to people who’ve made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or safety of america, world peace, or different important societal, public or personal endeavors.
How Usually Is the Presidential Medal of Freedom Granted?
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is usually awarded yearly, although it isn’t given on a set schedule. It’s often offered throughout ceremonies held by the sitting president, typically within the remaining months of the yr.
When Did the Custom of the Presidential Medal of Freedom Start?
The award was established in 1963 by former President John F. Kennedy, brother of the late Robert F. Kennedy.
Former President Harry S. Truman had created an analogous honor, the Medal of Freedom, in 1945 to acknowledge civilians for important contributions throughout World Warfare II. This earlier model was primarily centered on wartime efforts and was later discontinued.
When Kennedy assumed workplace, he selected to reinstate and increase the idea, establishing the Presidential Medal of Freedom as a broader recognition of remarkable civilian contributions throughout all fields, not simply these associated to struggle.
Who Obtained the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2025?
The 19 honorees embody:
- Hillary Clinton
- George Soros
- Robert F. Kennedy (posthumous)
- Michael J. Fox
- Denzel Washington
- Lionel Messi
- Earvin “Magic” Johnson
- José Andrés
- Bono
- Ashton B. Carter (posthumous)
- Tim Gill
- Jane Goodall
- Fannie Lou Hamer (posthumous)
- Ralph Lauren
- Invoice Nye
- George W. Romney (posthumous)
- David M. Rubenstein
- George Stevens Jr.
- Anna Wintour
“These nineteen People are nice leaders who’ve made America a greater place. They’re nice leaders as a result of they’re good individuals who have made extraordinary contributions to their nation and the world,” the White Home mentioned in an announcement.
