For Immediate Release
Office of the Press Secretary
July 23, 2003
Individuals Honored with Presidential Medal of Freedom
Following is the text of the citations for the Presidential Medals of
Freedom presented earlier today by the President:
Jacques Barzun
For more than seven decades, Jacques Barzun has been an influential
voice in American life. As a professor, writer, and historian, he has
helped to shape our culture, enlighten minds, and enrich lives. His
scholarship offers eloquent wisdom and insightful commentary that
stimulates thought and serves as a call to undertake great causes. The
United States honors this intellectual for his achievements in
educating and inspiring people in our country and around the world.
Julia Child
Through her instruction, joy, and enthusiasm for life, Julia Child
has enriched American culture. After working during World War II with
the Office of Strategic Services, she helped teach generations of
Americans a new way to cook. She defied stereotypes and broke new
ground in the developing world of television. Her many cookbooks and
series made gourmet cuisine approachable and accessible for cooks and
chefs everywhere. The United States honors this culinary artist and
teacher for her many contributions to our society.
Roberto Clemente Walker
Roberto Clemente Walker was a superb professional athlete and a
true humanitarian. On the baseball field, he had a Hall of Fame career
as one of the games greatest right fielders. On and off the field, he
was a model of kindness, generosity, and grace. Throughout his life,
he demonstrated an abiding dedication to helping those in need. In his
last act of devotion, Roberto Clemente Walker lost his life while
seeking to serve others. The United States honors him for his athletic
achievements and his compassionate heart.
Van Cliburn
With his historic victory in the first Tchaikovsky International
Piano Competition in Moscow at the age of 23, Van Cliburn earned
worldwide acclaim and helped shatter cultural barriers at the height of
the Cold War. With his talent, he has delighted audiences throughout
the world with masterful performances as a concert pianist. His deep
commitment to the development of young artists is epitomized by the
work of the Van Cliburn Foundation and the Van Cliburn International
Piano Competition. The United States honors this skilled musician for
his contributions to the arts and to our Nation.
Václav Havel
A champion of democracy and opportunity, Vclav Havel has helped
lead the fight for freedom in Central and Eastern Europe. After
enduring oppression as a playwright living under communist rule, he
worked to bring about a new birth of freedom, and served as president
of Czechoslovakia and the first president of the new Czech Republic.
His courage, determination, and dedication to human rights won him the
respect of the world. The United States honors this remarkable leader
for his many personal sacrifices and contributions to the cause of
freedom and justice.
Charlton Heston
Charlton Heston is an American legend. During his acting career,
he demonstrated charisma, grace, and strength while portraying some of
historys greatest men and films greatest roles. Off the screen, he has
advocated civil rights and established him-self as a patriot and ardent
defender of the Constitution. The United States honors him for his
lifetime of achievement as an actor and citizen.
Edward Teller
A brilliant physicist, Edward Teller helped shape the course of
human history. He played a pivotal role in ending the Cold War
through his work on the Manhattan Project, at the Los Alamos National
Laboratory, at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratory, which he
co-founded, and on the Strategic Defense Initiative. He has been a
strong advocate for our national defense and the cause of freedom. The
United States honors him for his excellence in science and in
education, and for his unwavering commitment to our Nation.
R. David Thomas
Daves life embodied the American Dream. Rising from humble
beginnings, he founded one of the worlds most successful and popular
restaurant chains and became a beloved American icon. An adopted child
himself, he was one of our Nations leading advocates for adoption,
passionately working to help provide foster children the loving homes
they deserve through the Dave Thomas Foundation for Adoption. His
leadership and success reflected his commitment to excellence and
compassion for others. The United States honors him for his integrity
and his lifetime of service.
Byron Raymond White
Byron White was an American hero who led an exemplary life. As an
All-American college athlete, Rhodes Scholar, World War II Bronze Star
recipient, NFL running back, Deputy Attorney General, and Supreme Court
Justice, Byron White always excelled. At the Department of Justice, he
worked to enforce civil rights and advance the cause of equal justice
for all Americans. Appointed by President Kennedy to the Supreme Court
at age 44, he served for 31 years as a strong, independent, and
principled jurist. The United States honors Byron White for his
lifetime of service to our Nation.
James Q. Wilson
As a leading social commentator and political scientist, James Q.
Wilsons research and writings on issues of crime, ethics, and human
nature have helped shape the world of ideas and influenced public
policy. He has advised United States Presidents while encouraging
character and personal responsibility among our citizens. The United
States honors this teacher, writer, and scholar for his numerous
contributions to our Nations social and civic life.
John R. Wooden
John R. Wooden is a sports legend. During the 1960s and 70s, he
guided UCLA to an unprecedented 10 national championships in 12 years,
building a dynasty that remains unparalleled in the history of college
basketball. His teams reflected his discipline and his character. He
taught basketball by teaching values, and his Pyramid of Success
influenced generations of Americans. The United States honors him for
his achievements as a coach and teacher and for his lifetime of
integrity, grace, and excellence.
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