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Bono, the iconic U2 frontman, joined a distinguished group of recipients Saturday as President Joe Biden bestowed the Presidential Medal of Freedom, America’s highest civilian honor, during one of his final acts as president.
The ceremony included notable figures from various fields, with Hillary Clinton, Vogue’s Anna Wintour, philanthropist George Soros, fashion icon Ralph Lauren, celebrated actors Denzel Washington and Michael J. Fox, and renowned conservationist Jane Goodall among the honorees.
Presidential Medal of Freedom should be given to heroes who went above and beyond the call of duty. This is a disgrace to America.
They include: Hillary Clinton, Lionel Messi, Bono, George Soros, Magic Johnson, Jane Goodall, Denzel Washington, Michael J. Fox, Ralph Lauren… pic.twitter.com/aWF8eXiBXd
— Jeff Everett (@RealJeffreyX) January 4, 2025
The Irish musician, whose birth name is Paul David Hewson, adds this prestigious American honor to an impressive collection that includes France’s highest cultural distinction and an honorary British knighthood.
Throughout his career, Bono has earned recognition not only for his musical achievements but also for his dedicated humanitarian work, particularly in addressing poverty and supporting HIV/AIDS initiatives.
“President Biden believes great leaders keep the faith, give everyone a fair shot, and put decency above all else,” the White House said in a statement Saturday. “These nineteen individuals are great leaders who have made America and the world a better place. They are great leaders because they are good people who have made extraordinary contributions to their country and the world.”
The White House commended the U2 singer’s accomplishments, specifically highlighting his role in bridging political divides to establish the United States PEPFAR AIDS program, as well as his founding of charitable organizations ONE and (RED).
Bono (@U2 @RED @ONECampaign) receives the Presidential Medal of Freedom. pic.twitter.com/5GsCiJr65z
— CSPAN (@cspan) January 4, 2025
This year’s medal ceremony recognized nineteen individuals who have made significant contributions across diverse sectors including culture, politics, and social activism.
The selection process for this prestigious award, which traces its origins to President John F. Kennedy’s administration, relies on recommendations from an external advisory committee, with the final decision resting with the sitting president.
The White House emphasized that each recipient demonstrated exceptional dedication to improving both their nation and the global community through their achievements and humanitarian efforts.
