Medal of Honor Winners

Knowing full well that the only news to hit the media these days is bad news, I did happen to find one bright spot among the black and crusty bits in the national news.

In the only commendable action of a tiresome and criminal presidency, President Bush honored these individuals at a White House ceremony on Thursday, June 19, 2008. Each of these people were awarded the coveted Medal of Freedom. Established by Executive Order 11085 in 1963, the Medal of Freedom may be awarded by the President “to any person who has made an 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.”

Benjamin S. Carson, Sr., M.D., has worked to improve the lives of those suffering from neurological disorders. His groundbreaking contributions to medicine and his inspiring efforts to help America’s youth fulfill their potential have strengthened our Nation. As a man of color, and a man of character, he is to be admired for both his vision, and his commitment to action.

Anthony S. Fauci, M.D., has dedicated his life to expanding the horizons of human knowledge. His efforts to advance our understanding and treatment of HIV/AIDS have brought hope and healing to millions around the world. Dr. Fausti was born and raised in my hometown, and I am personally proud to be able to say he is a hometown boy. He has also been the recipient of 2007 Association of American Physicians George M. Kober Medal.

Tom Lantos was a champion of human rights. The only Holocaust survivor to serve in the Congress, he devoted himself to securing liberty for oppressed people around the world and became a powerful witness for the importance of freedom.

General Peter Pace, U.S. Marine Corps (Ret.), is one of our Nation’s most accomplished and respected military officers. His selfless service and visionary leadership have helped keep our Nation safe.

Donna Edna Shalala is a former president of the University of Miami. She was also a former Secretary of Health and Human Services under President Clinton. She has worked tirelessly to ensure that all Americans can enjoy lives of hope, promise, and dignity.

Laurence H. Silberman was a former judge on the US Court of Appeals. He has devoted his life to promoting, enforcing, and defending the rule of law. He has been a stalwart guardian of the Constitution, and his work to strengthen our national security institutions has made Americans safer. He was also ambassador to Yugoslavia.

Here are several people who have done more for the world than you and I put together,