Muhammad Ali
Muhammad Ali is one of the greatest athletes of all time. He was the first
three-time heavyweight boxing champion of the world, successfully defended the
title 19 times, and was a Gold Medalist for the United States at the 1960
Olympic Games.
Carol Burnett
Carol Burnett is one of America's most accomplished comediennes and actresses.
She debuted on Broadway in 1959 and starred for more than a decade on The Carol
Burnett Show. Ms. Burnett won a special place in the hearts of people across
America through her combination of creativity, humor, and compassion.
Vinton Cerf and Robert Kahn
Vinton Cerf and Robert Kahn designed the software code that is used to transmit
data over the Internet. Dr. Cerf and Dr. Kahn have been at the forefront of a
digital revolution that has transformed global commerce, communication, and
entertainment.
Robert Conquest
Robert Conquest is a historian known for his groundbreaking work on Soviet
history, politics, and foreign policy. More than 35 years after its publication,
his landmark book, The Great Terror: Stalin's Purge of the Thirties, remains one
of the most influential studies of Soviet history and has been translated into
more than 20 languages.
Aretha Franklin
Aretha Franklin has brought joy to millions with her music. She has nearly two
dozen number-one singles and has won numerous awards. Ms. Franklin was the first
woman to be inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.
Alan Greenspan
Alan Greenspan has chaired the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve for the
last 18 years. Mr. Greenspan has been an extraordinary leader who has made great
contributions to America's economic growth and prosperity.
Andy Griffith
Andy Griffith is an American icon of the stage, cinema, and television. He first
achieved national acclaim in the 1950s for his stand-up comedy routines, and he
went on to star in television shows such as The Andy Griffith Show and Matlock,
as well as numerous Broadway productions and films.
Paul Harvey
Paul Harvey is one of America's most respected radio personalities and has set a
standard of excellence for broadcasters. Since his radio broadcasts first aired
nationally in 1951, Mr. Harvey has won the trust of millions of radio listeners.
Sonny Montgomery
Sonny Montgomery was a champion for veterans during his 30 years as a Member of
the House of Representatives from Mississippi. His signature achievement was the
Montgomery GI Bill, which has helped make education affordable for millions of
veterans.
General Richard B. Myers
General Richard B. Myers served as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff during
one of the most challenging and dangerous periods in American history. General
Myers was at the forefront of preparing America's armed forces to meet the
threats of the new century. His tenure was marked by the toppling of brutal
dictatorships in Afghanistan and Iraq and the liberation of more than 50 million
people.
Jack Nicklaus
Jack Nicklaus is the greatest professional golfer of all time. He won 18 majors
as a professional, the first in 1962 and the last in 1986, and he won more than
70 PGA Tour events.
Frank Robinson
Frank Robinson is one of the greatest baseball players ever. Among his awards
are National League Rookie of the Year, Most Valuable Player in both the
American and National Leagues, and the American League Triple Crown in 1966. He
also has been a top manager and earned Manager of the Year in the American
League in 1989. He broke the color barrier for managers, becoming Major League
Baseball's first African-American manager in 1975.
Paul Rusesabagina
Paul Rusesabagina demonstrated courage and compassion by sheltering people at
the hotel he managed during the 1994 Rwandan genocide. By risking his own life,
he helped to save the lives of more than 1,000 fellow Rwandans. Mr.
Rusesabagina's selfless acts have inspired millions, and he represents the best
of the human spirit.
Other
Recipients | Presidential Civilian
Medals Information |