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The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the United States’ 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.
Here’s what it’s essential find out about this award and the people who’ve just lately obtained it firstly of this new 12 months.
Find 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 the United States, world peace, or different important societal, public or personal endeavors.
How Often Is the Presidential Medal of Freedom Granted?
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is often awarded yearly, although it’s not given on a hard and fast schedule. It is normally offered throughout ceremonies held by the sitting president, usually within the remaining months of the 12 months.
When Did the Tradition of the Presidential Medal of Freedom Begin?
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 War 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 outstanding civilian contributions throughout all fields, not simply these associated to conflict.
Who Received 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
- Bill Nye
- George W. Romney (posthumous)
- David M. Rubenstein
- George Stevens Jr.
- Anna Wintour
“These nineteen Americans are great leaders who have made America a better place. They are great leaders because they are good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world,” the White House stated in an announcement.