President Biden has announced the recipients of the Presidential Citizens Medal, a prestigious award recognizing U.S. citizens for exemplary service to their country or fellow citizens. The ceremony is set to take place at the White House on January 2, 2025.
The honorees include individuals from various fields who have demonstrated commitment and dedication in their respective areas. Among them is Mary L. Bonauto, an attorney known for her efforts in legalizing same-sex marriage across several states and her role in the landmark Supreme Court case Obergefell v. Hodges.
Bill Bradley, a former NBA player and U.S. Senator, is recognized for his contributions to tax reform, civil rights, and more. Dr. Frank K. Butler, Jr., a Navy Seal and innovator in dive medicine, introduced Tactical Combat Casualty Care, transforming battlefield trauma care.
Elizabeth L. Cheney is honored for her two decades of public service and her role as Vice Chair of the Committee on the January 6 attack. Christopher J. Dodd's extensive career includes significant work in childcare reform and fostering international partnerships.
Diane Carlson Evans founded the Vietnam Women’s Memorial Foundation after serving as an Army nurse during the Vietnam War. Joseph L. Galloway (posthumous) was a respected war correspondent awarded a Bronze Star for combat valor.
Nancy Landon Kassebaum made history as Kansas' first female senator and advocated for healthcare reform and women's rights. Ted Kaufman served as a U.S. Senator from Delaware with integrity, championing everyday Americans.
Carolyn McCarthy became an advocate for gun safety following personal tragedy and served 18 years in Congress promoting improved background checks.
Posthumously honored are Louis Lorenzo Redding for his civil rights advocacy that contributed to Brown v. Board of Education; Collins J. Seitz for integrating public schools; Mitsuye Endo Tsutsumi for challenging Japanese American internment injustices; and others who made significant impacts in their fields.
Other recipients include Bobby Sager, Eleanor Smeal, Bennie G. Thompson, Thomas J. Vallely, Frances M. Visco, Paula S. Wallace, and Evan Wolfson—each recognized for their unique contributions toward social justice, education reform, healthcare advocacy, or cultural exchange initiatives.
President Biden emphasized that these honorees "are bonded by their common decency and commitment to serving others," acknowledging their roles in making America better through dedication and sacrifice.
