President Truman created the Medal of Freedom in 1945 to recognize civilians for their efforts during World War II. President Kennedy reinstated the medal in 1963 to honor service in a time of peace: "for especially meritorious contribution to (1) the security or national interests of the United States, or (2) world peace, or (3) cultural or other significant public or private endeavors" (Executive Order 11085 dated Feb. 22, 1963).
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Yes, she did win the presidential medal of freedom.
The presidential medal of freedom
Yo-Yo Ma was awarded the 2011 Presidential Medal of Freedom Award by President Barack Obama.
She was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom posthumously
Medal of Freedom for Civilians
Glenn P. Hogan has written: 'The Presidential Medal of Freedom' -- subject(s): Presidential Medal of Freedom, Biography
Presidential Medal of Freedom
He was given the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Reagan posthumously in 1983
Roberto Clemente
1969
The US Presidential Medal of Freedom
He became chairman, and later chairman emeritus, of the Partnership for a Drug-Free America. For his work with the organization Burke was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom,