President Biden has announced the names of 20 individuals who will receive the Presidential Citizens Medal.
The Presidential Citizens Medal honors American citizens who have made exceptional contributions to their country or fellow citizens.
President Biden emphasized that these recipients are united by their dedication to service and commitment to improving the lives of others, reflecting the values that strengthen the nation.
The awards ceremony took place today January 2, 2025 at the White House.
Mary L. Bonauto: As an attorney and activist, Bonauto led the fight to legalize same-sex marriage in several states and argued the landmark Obergefell v. Hodges case before the Supreme Court, achieving marriage equality nationwide. Her work has strengthened countless families and advanced civil rights.
Bill Bradley: Hailing from small-town Missouri, Bradley excelled as a two-time NBA champion with the New York Knicks and later served as a U.S. Senator from New Jersey, focusing on tax reform, civil rights, and water policy. His dedication to public service continues to inspire.
Frank K. Butler, Jr.: A Navy SEAL and medical innovator, Butler introduced Tactical Combat Casualty Care, revolutionizing trauma care on battlefields and in civilian settings, saving countless lives.
Elizabeth L. Cheney: Cheney has spent two decades in public service, including as a Congresswoman and Vice Chair of the January 6th Committee, defending democratic principles with courage and integrity.
Christopher J. Dodd: Dodd has dedicated over 50 years to public service as a Congressman, Senator, and diplomat, advancing childcare policies, financial reforms, and international partnerships while advocating for American values.
Diane Carlson Evans: A Vietnam War Army nurse, Evans founded the Vietnam Women’s Memorial Foundation, ensuring recognition for female service members and honoring their sacrifices.
Joseph L. Galloway (posthumous): Renowned war correspondent Joe Galloway embedded with U.S. troops, chronicling their bravery and humanity. He was the only civilian awarded a Bronze Star for valor by the U.S. Army.
Nancy Landon Kassebaum: The first woman to represent Kansas in the Senate, Kassebaum championed healthcare reform and women’s rights, often crossing party lines to advocate for her beliefs.
Ted Kaufman: As a U.S. Senator from Delaware, Kaufman served with integrity, advocating for judicial reform and the rights of everyday Americans.
Carolyn McCarthy: After her family was impacted by gun violence, McCarthy became a leading advocate for gun safety, serving 18 years in Congress to champion reforms like stronger background checks.
Louis Lorenzo Redding (posthumous): Delaware’s first Black attorney, Redding argued pivotal civil rights cases that paved the way for Brown v. Board of Education, promoting equity and justice.
Bobby Sager: A photographer and philanthropist, Sager captures stories of resilience in conflict zones, inspiring global empathy and action.
Collins J. Seitz (posthumous): As a Delaware state judge, Seitz was the first in the U.S. to integrate a public school, challenging “separate but equal” policies and advancing civil rights.
Eleanor Smeal: A feminist leader for over 40 years, Smeal has championed equal pay and gender equality, playing a key role in the Violence Against Women Act and other landmark reforms.
Bennie G. Thompson: Growing up in segregated Mississippi, Thompson became a leader in the Civil Rights movement and later chaired the January 6th Committee, upholding democracy and the rule of law.
Mitsuye Endo Tsutsumi (posthumous): Endo challenged the unjust internment of Japanese Americans during World War II, winning a Supreme Court case that restored freedom to thousands.
Thomas J. Vallely: A Vietnam War veteran, Vallely has worked for decades to foster U.S.-Vietnam relations, including founding Fulbright University Vietnam to advance cultural and economic ties.
Frances M. Visco: A breast cancer survivor, Visco has led the fight for increased funding and advocacy for breast cancer research, transforming awareness and care nationwide.
Paula S. Wallace: As founder and president of the Savannah College of Art and Design, Wallace has reimagined professional education, preparing thousands of students for careers in the arts.
Evan Wolfson: A pioneer of the marriage equality movement, Wolfson’s three-decade-long advocacy transformed laws and society, inspiring activism for equality worldwide.
