Presidential Medal of Freedom
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honor in the United States.
7 facts · 1 storiesDocument updatedEstablished facts
John F. Kennedy reintroduced the award as the Presidential Medal of Freedom in February 1963, making it an honor specifically from the president.
Verified · 1963-02Harry S. Truman established the predecessor Medal of Freedom on July 6, 1945, to recognize meritorious acts or services that aided the United States or its allies in war.
Verified · 1945-07-06Under the original 1945 arrangement, the secretaries of State, War or Navy could award the Medal of Freedom; it was not specifically an honor bestowed by the president.
Verified · 1945-07-06The award has also recognized people after their deaths. Historical examples include computer programming pioneer Grace Hopper, Martin Luther King Jr., Cesar Chavez, Harvey Milk and Bayard Rustin.
VerifiedKennedy selected 31 recipients in 1963, but his assassination prevented him from presenting their awards. His successor, Lyndon B. Johnson, presented them at the December 1963 ceremony.
Verified · 1963-12Kennedy's February 1963 reform broadened recognition beyond wartime service to meritorious contributions to United States security or national interests, world peace, and cultural or other significant public or private endeavors.
Verified · 1963-02
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