Rush Limbaugh Awarded Presidential Medal of Freedom

RADIO ONLINE | Wednesday, February 5, 2020

Rush Limbaugh

In a surprise during President Donald Trump's State of the Union address on Tuesday evening, First Lady Melania Trump awarded conservative radio talk show host Rush Limbaugh the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian award in the U.S. It recognizes those 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." The event happened the day after Limbaugh announced he had advanced lung cancer during his regular syndicated radio broadcast.

"Almost every American family knows the pain when a loved one is diagnosed with a serious illness," said Trump during the presentation. "Here tonight is a special man, someone beloved by millions of Americans who just received a Stage 4 advanced cancer diagnosis. This is not good news, but what is good news is that he is the greatest fighter and winner that you will ever meet."

"Trump continued, "Rush, in recognition of all that you have done for our nation, the millions of people a day that you speak to and you inspire and all of the incredible work that you have done for charity, I am proud to announce tonight that you will be receiving our country's highest civilian honor: The Presidential Medal of Freedom."