This is a partial list of recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom, listed chronologically within the aspect of life in which each recipient is or was renowned, though grouping recipients in respective categories is for convenience of the reader, as the award itself is not categorized by particular discipline.
Typically the medal is bestowed upon the recipient by the sitting president who has chosen them. However, the first recipients selected by President John F. Kennedy before his assassination were formally awarded by his successor in office, Lyndon B. Johnson.[2]
Two people, Ellsworth Bunker and Colin Powell, are two-time recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Colin Powell received his second award with Distinction,[6] while Ellsworth Bunker was given both of his awards with distinction.
This list does not include those awarded the similarly named but very distinct Medal of Freedom, an antecedent award issued prior to 1963.
^ abClinton, W. J. (September 30, 1993). "Remarks on the Retirement of General Colin Powell in Arlington, Virginia". University of California, Santa Barbara: The American Presidency Project. Retrieved September 18, 2016. In recognition of your legacy and service, of your courage and accomplishment, today, General Powell, I was honored to present you with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, with distinction. I want to tell all those here in attendance that this was the second Medal of Freedom you have received, the first from President Bush in 1991. And today, you became only the second American citizen in the history of the Republic to be the recipient of two Medals of Freedom.
^Wolley, John T.; Gerhard Peters (June 9, 1980). "Gerald Ford, XXXVIII President of the United States: 1974–1977, Remarks Upon Presenting the Presidential Medal of Freedom, January 10, 1977". The American Presidency Project. www.presidency.ucsb.edu. Retrieved May 22, 2011. NORMAN ROCKWELL...Normal Rockwell, represented by his son, Jarvis Rockwell. "Artist, illustrator and author, Norman Rockwell has portrayed the American scene with unrivaled freshness and clarity. Insight, optimism and good humor are the hallmarks of his artistic style. His vivid and affectionate portraits of our country and ourselves have become a beloved part of the American tradition."
^The National First Ladies Library (November 16, 2010). Heroes of the Presidential Medal of Freedom(PDF). Canton Ohio. p. 3. Retrieved February 11, 2011. Georgia O'Keeffe (1887–1986)...Presidential Medal of Freedom received January 10, 1977{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
^Woolley, John T; Gerhard Peters. "Gerald R. Ford, XXXVIII President of the United States: 1974–1977, Remarks Upon Presenting the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Martha Graham, October 14, 1976". The American Presidency Project. University of California, Santa Barbara. Retrieved February 9, 2011. [At this point, the President read the citation, the text of which follows:] The President of the United States of America Awards this Presidential Medal of Freedom With Distinction to Martha Graham. Dancer, teacher, and choreographer, Martha Graham has captivated the world with her magic and has left a legacy of imagination with all who have witnessed her talent. Her energy, creativity and daring have opened new doors of expression in dance. Her followers and friends adore her, and her country, the United States of America, is proud to proclaim her a brilliant star and a National treasure.
^Woolley, John T; Gerhard Peters. "Ronald Reagan, XL President of the United States: 1981–1989, Remarks at the Presentation Ceremony for the Presidential Medal of Freedom, March 26, 1984". The American Presidency Project. University of California, Santa Barbara. Retrieved February 11, 2011. Lincoln Kirstein: Lincoln Kirstein is an author and entrepreneur who has honored and delighted Americans through his enormous contribution to ballet in our country. Through his commitment, two major institutions of American dance, the New York City Ballet and the School of American Ballet, were created and flourished. Developing and fostering appreciation for the arts have always depended on the energy, creativity, and commitment of individual citizens. Lincoln Kirstein stands tall as one of a select and treasured few in the world of American art.
^Wolley, John T.; Gerhard Peters (June 9, 1980). "Jimmy Carter, XXXIX President of the United States: 1977–1981, Presidential Medal of Freedom Remarks at the Presentation Ceremony, June 9, 1980". The American Presidency Project. www.presidency.ucsb.edu. Retrieved May 22, 2011. All of these are famous people, they're well-known throughout the world. But even including Vice Presidents and Presidents, noted singers and dancers and writers and ornithologists, I think the next would be the most famous of us all, including the one who reads this citation. I would like to ask Mrs. John Wayne to come forward. [At this point, the President read the citation, the text of which follows: THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA AWARDS THIS PRESIDENTIAL MEDAL OF FREEDOM TO JOHN WAYNE. John Wayne was both an example and a symbol of true American grit and determination. Through his countless film roles, "The Duke" still leads millions on heroic adventures on behalf of fairness and justice. He embodies the enduring American values of individualism, relentless bravery and perseverance in pursuit of what is right. He was the quintessential patriot, and will especially be remembered whenever our Nation faces a challenge calling for steadfast courage.]
^Woolley, John T; Gerhard Peters. "Ronald Reagan, XL President of the United States: 1981–1989, Remarks at the Presentation Ceremony for the Presidential Medal of Freedom, March 26, 1984". The American Presidency Project. University of California, Santa Barbara. Retrieved February 11, 2011. As a giant in the world of entertainment, James Cagney has left his mark not only on the film industry but on the hearts of all his fellow Americans. In some 60 years in entertainment, performing on stage and screen, he mastered drama and action adventure, as well as music and dance. One of his most remembered performances, as George M. Cohan in "Yankee Doodle Dandy," was a whirlwind singing and dancing film that inspired a Nation at war when it sorely needed a lift in spirit. James Cagney's professional and personal life has brought great credit to him and left unforgettable memories with millions who have followed his career.
^Wolley, John T.; Gerhard Peters (June 9, 1980). "Gerald Ford, XXXVIII President of the United States: 1974–1977, Remarks Upon Presenting the Presidential Medal of Freedom, January 10, 1977". The American Presidency Project. www.presidency.ucsb.edu. Retrieved May 22, 2011. Archibald MacLeish, represented by his nephew, Roderick MacLeish. "Poet and playwright, teacher and statesman, Archibald MacLeish has combined the vocation of man of letters with that of public spokesman. A poet of realities as well as dreams, his eloquent words are matched by his sensitive social conscience. He seeks truth inspired by love of his fellow men and of his country. We are proud to recognize his stature as a humanist, an artist, and an American."
^Wolley, John T.; Gerhard Peters (June 9, 1980). "Gerald Ford, XXXVIII President of the United States: 1974–1977, Remarks Upon Presenting the Presidential Medal of Freedom, January 10, 1977". The American Presidency Project. www.presidency.ucsb.edu. Retrieved May 22, 2011. JAMES ALBERT MICHENER, "Author, teacher and popular historian, James Michener has entranced a generation with his compelling essays and novels. From 'Tales of the South Pacific,' to 'Centennial,' the prolific writings of this master storyteller have expanded the knowledge and enriched the lives of million."
^Woolley, John T; Gerhard Peters. "Ronald Reagan, XL President of the United States: 1981–1989, Remarks at the Presentation Ceremony for the Presidential Medal of Freedom, March 26, 1984". The American Presidency Project. University of California, Santa Barbara. Retrieved February 11, 2011. Louis L'Amour: Through his western novels, Louis L'Amour has played a leading role in shaping our national identity. His writings portrayed the rugged individual and the deep-seated values of those who conquered the American frontier. Starting out from humble beginnings, he has lived a fulfilling and adventurous life. An eminently successful writer, more than 100 million copies of his novels are in print, L'Amour's descriptions of America and Americans have added to our understanding of our past and reaffirmed our potential as an exploring, pioneering, and free people.
^The National First Ladies Library (November 16, 2010). Heroes of the Presidential Medal of Freedom(PDF). Canton Ohio. p. 3. Retrieved February 11, 2011. Marian Anderson (1897–1993)...Presidential Medal of Freedom received December 6, 1963{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
^Woolley, John T; Gerhard Peters. "Ronald Reagan, XL President of the United States: 1981–1989, Remarks at the Presentation Ceremony for the Presidential Medal of Freedom, March 26, 1984". The American Presidency Project. University of California, Santa Barbara. Retrieved February 11, 2011. Ernest Jennings "Tennessee Ernie" Ford: Through his musical talents, warm personality, and quick "down-home" wit Tennessee Ernie Ford won the hearts of the American people. Ford's music, which revealed his character and soul to all who listened, inspired as well as entertained his audiences. His respect for traditional values, his strong faith in God, and his unlimited capacity for human kindness have greatly endeared him to his fellow countrymen. America is a Nation richer in spirit because of Tennessee Ernie Ford.
^McFeatters, Ann (July 10, 2002). "Fred Rogers gets Presidential Medal of Freedom". Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. www.post-gazette.com. Retrieved February 9, 2011. Intel Corp. co-founder Gordon Moore. Through the Gordon and Betty Moore Foundation, Moore is a philanthropic leader in higher education, scientific research, the environment and San Francisco Bay Area projects.
^Vargas, Jose Antonio (November 10, 2005). "At the White House, Prizes for 14 Champs,Medal of Freedom Ceremony Shows Ali as Fast as Ever". The Washington Post. washingtonpost.com. Retrieved February 9, 2011. Also honored yesterday...Vinton Cerf and Robert Kahn, the men who in figuring out how to routinely and quickly transmit data over computer networks helped start a digital revolution
^"Net pioneers receive top honour". BBC News. www.bbc.com. November 10, 2005. Retrieved February 9, 2011. "Dr Cerf and Dr Kahn have been at the forefront of a digital revolution that has transformed global commerce, communication, and entertainment," read the citation for the medal.
^The National First Ladies Library (November 16, 2010). Heroes of the Presidential Medal of Freedom(PDF). Canton Ohio. p. 3. Retrieved February 11, 2011. Annie Wauneka (1910–1997)...Presidential Medal of Freedom received December 6, 1963{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
^Woolley, John T; Gerhard Peters. "Ronald Reagan, XL President of the United States: 1981–1989, Remarks at the Presentation Ceremony for the Presidential Medal of Freedom, March 26, 1984". The American Presidency Project. University of California, Santa Barbara. Retrieved February 11, 2011. Eunice Kennedy Shriver: With enormous conviction and unrelenting effort, Eunice Kennedy Shriver has labored on behalf of America's least powerful people, the mentally retarded. Over the last two decades, she has been on the forefront of numerous initiatives on the behalf of the mentally retarded, from creating day camps, to establishing research centers, to the founding of the Special Olympics. Her decency and goodness have touched the lives of many, and Eunice Kennedy Shriver deserves America's praise, gratitude, and love.
^Woolley, John T; Gerhard Peters. "Remarks With Under Secretary of State George W. Ball at the Presentation of the Medal of Freedom Awards, December 6, 1963". The American Presidency Project. University of California, Santa Barbara. Retrieved February 9, 2011. Mr. Ball: And now, Mr. President, let me present those who are to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom with Special Distinction....Mr. Justice Felix Frankfurter. THE PRESIDENT. Jurist, scholar, counselor, conversationalist, he has brought to all his roles a zest and wisdom which has made him teacher to his time.
^The National First Ladies Library (November 16, 2010). Heroes of the Presidential Medal of Freedom(PDF). Canton Ohio. p. 3. Retrieved February 11, 2011. Justice Sandra Day O'Connor (1930 – )...Presidential Medal of Freedom received August 12, 2009{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
^Woolley, John T; Gerhard Peters. "Ronald Reagan, XL President of the United States: 1981–1989, Remarks at the Presentation Ceremony for the Presidential Medal of Freedom, March 26, 1984". The American Presidency Project. University of California, Santa Barbara. Retrieved February 11, 2011. Dr. Denton Cooley: In an outstanding professional career, Dr. Denton Cooley has distinguished himself time and again in the field of medicine. As one of this country's leading heart surgeons, he has charted new territory in his search for ways to prolong and enrich human life. His efforts have saved the lives not only of his own patients, but of those of many other doctors who have studied and mastered techniques developed by him. As a heart surgeon and as a creative, independent thinker, Dr. Denton Cooley is a force for innovation in American medicine.
^Woolley, John T; Gerhard Peters. "Ronald Reagan, XL President of the United States: 1981–1989, Remarks at the Presentation Ceremony for the Presidential Medal of Freedom, March 26, 1984". The American Presidency Project. University of California, Santa Barbara. Retrieved February 11, 2011. Dr. Hector Garcia: Dr. Hector Garcia's patriotism and community concern exemplify the meaning of good citizenship. His many community-building endeavors included his work as a founder and first National Chairman of the American G.I. Forum, a veterans' organization which has done much to improve the lot of Americans of Mexican descent. Over the years, he has faithfully represented our government on numerous occasions, overseas and domestically. Dr. Hector Garcia is a credit to his family and community, and to all Americans. Through his efforts, based on a deep belief in traditional American ideals, he has made this a better country.
^The National First Ladies Library (November 16, 2010). Heroes of the Presidential Medal of Freedom(PDF). Canton Ohio. p. 3. Retrieved February 11, 2011. Marian Wright Edelman (1939 – )...Presidential Medal of Freedom received August 9, 2000{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
^Woolley, John T; Gerhard Peters. "Remarks With Under Secretary of State George W. Ball at the Presentation of the Medal of Freedom Awards, December 6, 1963". The American Presidency Project. University of California, Santa Barbara. Retrieved February 9, 2011. Mr. Ball: And now, Mr. President, let me present those who are to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom with Special Distinction....Dr. Ralph J. Bunche. THE PRESIDENT. Scholar and diplomat, servant of the emerging world order, he has opened up new vistas in the demanding quest for international justice and peace.
^ abWoolley, John T; Gerhard Peters. "Remarks With Under Secretary of State George W. Ball at the Presentation of the Medal of Freedom Awards, December 6, 1963". The American Presidency Project. University of California, Santa Barbara. Retrieved February 9, 2011. Mr. Ball: And now, Mr. President, let me present those who are to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom with Special Distinction....First, Mr. Ellsworth Bunker. THE PRESIDENT. Citizen and diplomat, he has brought integrity, patience and a compassionate understanding of other men and nations to the service of the Republic under three Presidents.
^Woolley, John T; Gerhard Peters. "Ronald Reagan, XL President of the United States: 1981–1989, Remarks at the Presentation Ceremony for the Presidential Medal of Freedom, March 26, 1984". The American Presidency Project. University of California, Santa Barbara. Retrieved February 11, 2011. Mr. Gamal el-Sadat will accept for his father, the late President Anwar el-Sadat. President Anwar el-Sadat, as a soldier, led his country in war, but his greatest acts of courage came in pursuit of peace. He captured the imagination of people everywhere by taking the first great step toward achieving a lasting peace between Egypt and Israel. His humanity and sense of responsibility, even now that he is gone, remain a giant force for peace and stability in the world. Anwar el-Sadat was a peacemaker of monumental wisdom and tenderness who will remain forever a hero in the hearts of the American people.
^The National First Ladies Library (November 16, 2010). Heroes of the Presidential Medal of Freedom(PDF). Canton Ohio. p. 3. Retrieved February 11, 2011. Chief,Wilma Mankiller (1945–2010)...Presidential Medal of Freedom received January 15, 1998{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
^Mayer, Catherine (January 13, 2009). "A Presidential Medal for Tony Blair". Time. www.time.com. Retrieved February 9, 2011. Later today in a ceremony in the East Room of the White House, Bush is set to dole out a Presidential Medal of Freedom to Blair.
^Woolley, John T; Gerhard Peters. "George Bush, XLI President of the United States: 1989–1993, Remarks at the Presentation Ceremony for the Presidential Medals of Freedom and Presidential Citizen's Medals, July 3, 1991". The American Presidency Project. University of California, Santa Barbara. Retrieved February 11, 2011. this ceremony would not be complete without honoring three more American leaders, exceptional public servants who each contributed singularly to our success in the Gulf...Secretary of Defense Dick Cheney....As to Dick Cheney, Secretary Cheney not only oversaw one of the largest deployments of forces in American history but also worked hard at the beginning of the crisis to ensure that America would respond decisively to aggression. His effective testimony before the United States Congress helped all our fellow countrymen understand what was at stake in the Gulf. Working swiftly, yet skillfully, when time was truly of the essence, he traveled to Saudi Arabia and arranged for the first deployment of U.S. and coalition troops to that nation. And when war came America was ready, and Secretary Cheney's leadership contributed enormously to the victory.
^"Lady Bird Johnson Biography". Lbjlib.utexas.edu. Archived from the original on December 5, 2010. Retrieved January 5, 2011., for date of award see The National First Ladies Library (November 16, 2010). Heroes of the Presidential Medal of Freedom(PDF). Canton Ohio. p. 3. Retrieved February 11, 2011. Lady Bird Johnson (1912–2007)...Presidential Medal of Freedom received January 10, 1977{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
^The National First Ladies Library (November 16, 2010). Heroes of the Presidential Medal of Freedom(PDF). Canton Ohio. p. 3. Retrieved February 11, 2011. Betty Ford (1918 – )...Presidential Medal of Freedom received November 18, 1991{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
^Woolley, John T; Gerhard Peters. "Remarks With Under Secretary of State George W. Ball at the Presentation of the Medal of Freedom Awards, December 6, 1963". The American Presidency Project. University of California, Santa Barbara. Retrieved February 9, 2011. Mr. Ball: Governor Herbert H. Lehman. I know that we were all deeply saddened to hear yesterday of the death of this great citizen. Mr. President, you may wish to read his citation in absentia. THE PRESIDENT. Citizen and statesman, he has used wisdom and compassion as the tools of government and has made politics the highest form of public service. Later, on January 28, 1964, the medal for Herbert H. Lehman was presented to Mrs. Lehman at a special ceremony at the White House.
^Woolley, John T; Gerhard Peters. "Ronald Reagan, XL President of the United States: 1981–1989, Remarks at the Presentation Ceremony for the Presidential Medal of Freedom, March 26, 1984". The American Presidency Project. University of California, Santa Barbara. Retrieved February 11, 2011. Senator Howard H. Baker, Jr. The citation: As a Member of the United States Senate, one of the country's most powerful and influential citizens, and an individual whose character shines brightly as an example to others, Howard Baker has been a force for responsibility and civility on a generation of Americans. In his almost 20 years of service, he has earned the respect and admiration of his fellow citizens regardless of their political persuasion. As Majority Leader of the Senate, his quiet, cooperative style and keen legislative skills have honored America's finest traditions of enlightened political leadership and statesmanship.
^Wolley, John T.; Gerhard Peters (June 9, 1980). "Jimmy Carter, XXXIX President of the United States: 1977–1981, Presidential Medal of Freedom Remarks at the Presentation Ceremony, June 9, 1980". The American Presidency Project. www.presidency.ucsb.edu. Retrieved February 11, 2011. The President of the United States of America Awards This Presidential Medal of Freedom to Lyndon Baines Johnson, Lyndon B. Johnson cared deeply about our country, its citizens, and the condition of their lives. He knew well how to translate concern into action, and action into a national agenda. He did more than any American of his time to break the chains of injustice, illiteracy, poverty and sickness. We are a greater society because President Johnson lived among us and worked for us.
^Wolley, John T.; Gerhard Peters (June 9, 1980). "Jimmy Carter, XXXIX President of the United States: 1977–1981, Presidential Medal of Freedom Remarks at the Presentation Ceremony, June 9, 1980". The American Presidency Project. www.presidency.ucsb.edu. Retrieved February 11, 2011. On occasion in our lives, a certain person touches the heartstrings of our existence and inspires us all in a special, deeply human way. I'd now like to ask the wife of Hubert Humphrey to come forward. [Applause] If you'll permit me an aside, I think the applause is not only for the honoree but for Muriel Humphrey as well, who shared so much. At this point, the President read the citation, the text of which follows: The President of the United States of America Awards this Presidential Medal of Freedom to Hubert H. Humphrey. Hubert H. Humphrey awed us with the scope of his knowledge; he inspired us with the depth of his sympathy; he moved us with his passion for social justice; he delighted us with his joyous love of his fellow human beings. He brought honor and enthusiasm to everything he did. He ennobled the political process.
^Woolley, John T; Gerhard Peters. "Ronald Reagan, XL President of the United States: 1981–1989, Remarks at the Presentation Ceremony for the Presidential Medal of Freedom, March 26, 1984". The American Presidency Project. University of California, Santa Barbara. Retrieved February 11, 2011. Dr. Norman Vincent Peale: With a deep understanding of human behavior and an appreciation for God's role in our lives, Dr. Norman Vincent Peale helped originate a philosophy of happiness. Through the American Foundation of Religion and Psychiatry and his many books, Dr. Peale became an advocate of the joy of life, helping millions find new meaning in their lives. Few Americans have contributed so much to the personal happiness of their fellow citizens as Dr. Norman Vincent Peale.
^The National First Ladies Library (November 16, 2010). Heroes of the Presidential Medal of Freedom(PDF). Canton Ohio. p. 3. Retrieved February 11, 2011. Dr. Margaret Mead (1901–1978)...Presidential Medal of Freedom received January 19, 1979{{cite book}}: CS1 maint: location missing publisher (link)
^Woolley, John T; Gerhard Peters. "Ronald Reagan, XL President of the United States: 1981–1989, Remarks at the Presentation Ceremony for the Presidential Medal of Freedom, March 26, 1984". The American Presidency Project. University of California, Santa Barbara. Retrieved February 11, 2011. Mrs. Jackie Robinson will accept for her late husband, Mr. Jackie Robinson. As an individual of courage and conviction, and as a skilled and dedicated athlete, Jackie Robinson stood tall among his peers. His courage opened the door of professional sports to all Americans when, in 1947, he became the first black baseball player in the major leagues. He bravely demonstrated to all that skill and sportsmanship, not race or ethnic background, are the qualities by which athletes should be judged. In doing so, he struck a mighty blow for equality, freedom, and the American way of life. Jackie Robinson was a good citizen, a great man, and a true American champion.
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