The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honor in the United States and has been awarded by the president since John F. Kennedy established it by Executive Order on February 22, 1963. The award recognizes individuals who have made "an especially meritorious contribution to the security or national interests of the United States, world peace, cultural or other significant public or private endeavors."
Click through the following gallery to explore other notable figures who have received the Presidential Medal of Freedom.