The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honor in the United States and is presented by the President of the United States. Established by Executive Order 11085 on February 22, 1963, by President John F. Kennedy, it was originally known as the Medal of Freedom. It replaced the earlier Medal for Merit, which was awarded during and shortly after World War II.
History and Purpose
- The medal was created to honor those individuals who have made "an especially meritorious contribution to the security or national interests of the United States, world peace, cultural or other significant public or private endeavors."
- It was first awarded in 1963 to recipients like Marian Anderson, John J. McCloy, and General Dwight D. Eisenhower.
- In 1963, President Kennedy also announced that the Medal of Freedom would be redesignated as the Presidential Medal of Freedom, with the new design featuring a bust of Liberty on the obverse.
Design
The medal's design includes:
- A golden star on a blue enameled pentagon, with the points of the star extending beyond the pentagon's edges.
- On the obverse, a bust of Liberty, encircled by the inscription "Presidential Medal of Freedom."
- The reverse side features the Great Seal of the United States and the inscription "In God We Trust."
Recipients
Ceremony and Presentation
- The medal is typically presented by the President at a White House ceremony, often during the last year of their term.
- The ceremony includes a brief speech by the President, highlighting the contributions of each recipient.
Notable Controversies and Discussions
- Over the years, the award has occasionally stirred controversy, particularly when recipients are perceived to have political affiliations or when awards are seen as politically motivated.
- There have been discussions about the criteria for selection, with some arguing that the honor should be reserved for truly exceptional contributions to the nation or the world.
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