On Wednesday it was announced that Hall of Fame broadcaster Vin Scully will be among 21 recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom – the nation’s highest civilian honor – presented to individuals who have made significant meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors. The awards will be presented at the White House on November 22.

“The Presidential Medal of Freedom is not just our nation’s highest civilian honor – it’s a tribute to the idea that all of us, no matter where we come from, have the opportunity to change this country for the better,” President Obama said. “From scientists, philanthropists, and public servants to activists, athletes, and artists, these 21 individuals have helped push America forward, inspiring millions of people around the world along the way.”

Scully is no stranger to U.S. presidents. In fact, he and former president Ronald Reagan were close friends. Scully was the guest of honor at a forum held at the Reagan Library on June 14, 2014.
(Video capture courtesy of reaganfoundation.org).

Scully, who retired at the conclusion of the 2016 season after 67 years as the voice of the Dodgers, will be joined by fellow Presidential Medal of Freedom recipients Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Elouise Cobell (posthumous), Ellen DeGeneres, Robert De Niro, Richard Garwin, Bill and Melinda Gates, Frank Gehry, Margaret H. Hamilton, Tom Hanks, Grace Hopper (posthumous), Michael Jordan, Maya Lin, Lorne Michaels, Newt Minow, Eduardo Padrón, Robert Redford, Diana Ross, Bruce Springsteen and Cicely Tyson.

Presidential Medal of Freedom

The Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony will be streamed live at: www.whitehouse.gov/live. The official White House press release can be found here.