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John Glenn poses for a portrait, Monday, Feb. 20, 2012, in Columbus, Ohio,the 50th anniversary of Glenn's historic flight as the first American to orbit Earth. (AP Photo/Nasa, Bill Ingalls)

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Obama honors Medal of Freedom recipients

Nation's highest civilian honor

Updated: Tuesday, 29 May 2012, 4:51 PM EDT
Published : Tuesday, 29 May 2012, 4:33 PM EDT

NANCY BENAC,Associated Press

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama is honoring a diverse group of political and cultural icons, including former Secretary of State Madeleine Albright, astronaut John Glenn and rock legend Bob Dylan, with the Medal of Freedom at the White House.

The president noted that the awards ceremony Tuesday led to a "packed house, which is testament to how cool this group is." Obama said the honorees have moved Americans with their words and inspired them with their actions.

Other honorees include Tennessee basketball coach Pat Summitt, former Supreme Court justice John Paul Stevens and author Toni Morrison.

The Medal of Freedom is the nation's highest civilian honor. It's presented to individuals who have made meritorious contributions to the national interests of the United States, to world peace or to other significant endeavors.