| Name | Presidential Medal of Freedom |
| Purpose | To recognize individuals who have made exceptional contributions to national security, military service, or the public good |
| Criticism | Close ties to the military and executive branch |
| Awarded by | The President of the United States |
| Recipients | Military leaders • Diplomats • Scientists • Public figures |
| Established | 1864 by President Abraham Lincoln |
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is an honor bestowed by the President of the United States to recognize individuals who have made exceptional contributions to national security, military service, or the public welfare. It is considered one of the highest civilian awards in the nation.
The medal was established in 1864 by President Abraham Lincoln during the American Civil War. Lincoln's original intention was to create a decoration that could be awarded to members of the Union Army, Union Navy, and United States Marine Corps who displayed heroism and distinguished service in combat.
In the initial executive order, Lincoln stated that the medal would be presented "to such officers, non-commissioned officers, and privates as shall most distinguish themselves by their gallantry in action, and other soldier-like qualities during the present insurrection." The award was initially known as the "Presidential Medal of Valor."
Over time, the criteria for the medal has expanded beyond just military service. While maintaining a focus on national security and public service, the modern Presidential Medal of Freedom may be awarded to civilians who have made outstanding contributions in fields such as:
Recipients are nominated by the President and selected based on their impact on American society, culture, and standing in the world. The medal is intended to be the nation's highest civilian honor, on par with the military's Medal of Honor.
Some of the most prominent individuals awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom over the decades include:
The list reflects the medal's evolution from a strictly military award to one that recognizes achievements across many fields that have advanced American interests and values.
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is considered one of the nation's highest civilian honors, second only to the Medal of Honor awarded to members of the armed forces. Recipients are invited to the White House for a formal presentation ceremony, often conducted by the sitting President.
The medal's prestige derives from its direct association with the Office of the President and its selective nature - only a few hundred have been awarded over the decades. Nonetheless, the award has faced some criticism over the years for being too closely tied to the political agenda of the executive branch.
There have also been occasional controversies over the selection of recipients, with some arguing that the medal has at times been used more for political patronage than true meritorious service. Despite these debates, the Presidential Medal of Freedom remains an esteemed recognition of exceptional American achievement and contribution.
