Who created the Medal of Freedom? Origin explored as Hillary Clinton, Bono, Jose Andres receive highest civilian award

President Joe Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 prominent personalities, among which Hillary Clinton the Secretary of State, the frontman of the U2 band Bono, and chef José Andrés. The Presidential Medal of Freedom of America is the highest civilian award that is given to people with an intent to honor them because of their incredible contributions to society.

The award’s origins can be traced back to the Second World War– a time when civilians were considered essential in any endeavors being undertaken for the nation.

The initiative of the Medal of Freedom began on July 6, 1945, by President Harry S. Truman through Executive Order 9586. This initiative was particularly focused on honoring civilians who had done outstanding services to the country during the war, particularly those whose contributions could not be signified by the possible merit of military decorations.

Truman intended to have a medal that would find recognition for merit acts that aided the United States or its allies during a time of global conflict.

Originally, it was termed a "Medal of Freedom," only to be presented for meritorious acts in support of the war effort. Thousands of civilians were noted by Truman's administration for their many contributions in this most troubled period.

Specifically, the award became relevant because it fulfilled the need for civilian service rarely recognized next to military accomplishments.

President John F. Kennedy superseded and broadened the edict of the award in 1963 through Executive Order 11085. This re-establishment transformed the Medal into the Presidential Medal of Freedom, and the contributions now could be honored for broader activities beyond wartime.

According to Kennedy’s instructions, this medal was awarded for great contributions of national importance, humanity’s cause, as well as to culture or public activities.

Kennedy's vision of the program centered on the need to honor outstanding achievers within different fields of endeavor – diplomatic services, arts, sciences, education, and philanthropy. The first recipients under this new designation were announced shortly before Kennedy's assassination in November 1963.

His successor, President Lyndon B. Johnson, presented these awards on December 6, 1963, including a posthumous award for Kennedy himself.

---

Design and symbolism of the Presidential Medal of Freedom

The medal has a white star mounted on a red pentagon of five gold eagles, standing for different points of American virtues and ideals. At its center exhibits a blue circle with 13 gold stars: the original number of colonies for the United States of America. Then, the entire medal is fixed on a suspender of a blue ribbon using colors from the presidential seal.

The design of the insignia was done by Harry D. Temple of the Army's Institute of Heraldry in accordance with the suggestion of President Kennedy and First Lady Jacqueline Kennedy. That white star standing for freedom and a history of military courage is an embodiment of the nation’s assurance of defending democracy and freedom.

The selection process of recipients is performed by the sitting president, but most of the time, advisory bodies make recommendations. Although the majority of honorees are U.S. citizens, foreigners are also honored with this distinguished award.

The awarding ceremony of the medal is usually performed on July 4th, but the sitting president can choose to award the medal at other times.

---

Recent ceremony highlights

In the latest event on January 4, 2025, Biden appreciated the recipients for their extraordinary contributions to society. He said that these individuals represent leadership and decency and make America and the world a better place.

The honorees included:

Hillary Clinton: For her long career of public service as First Lady, Senator, Secretary of State, and as a historic presidential candidate.

Bono (Paul Hewson): Awarded both for his work on music and humanitarian works.

José Andrés: For humanitarian services in World Central Kitchen, especially in Gaza.

Lionel Messi: Awarded because of his sports service and global impact in soccer presentation.

Denzel Washington: Awarded because of his effect on film-making and social justice advocacy.

Other notable recipients included chef José Andrés, actor Michael J. Fox, philanthropist George Soros, and civil rights leader Fannie Lou Hamer (posthumously) among others.