President Donald Trump announced Monday that former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani will be awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor, days after Giuliani was seriously injured in a car accident in New Hampshire.
Trump’s Announcement
“As President of the United States of America, I am pleased to announce that Rudy Giuliani, the greatest Mayor in the history of New York City, and an equally great American Patriot, will receive THE PRESIDENTIAL MEDAL OF FREEDOM, our Country’s highest civilian honor,” Trump wrote on Truth Social. “Details as to time and place to follow.”
Giuliani’s Recovery
Giuliani, 81, was hospitalized Saturday after his rental car was rear-ended at high speed. He suffered a fractured vertebrae, multiple cuts, and bruises to his left arm and leg, according to his spokesman Michael Ragusa.
Ragusa said Monday that Giuliani’s condition “continues to improve, and he is expected to be discharged from the hospital within the next few days.”
Medal of Freedom Background
The Presidential Medal of Freedom, established in 1963, recognizes extraordinary contributions to U.S. national interests, security, culture, or world peace.
During his presidency, Trump has awarded the medal to both political allies and cultural figures. Past recipients under Trump include:
Rush Limbaugh, conservative radio host.
Miriam Adelson, GOP megadonor’s wife.
Athletes such as Tiger Woods and Mariano Rivera.
Republican lawmakers Jim Jordan and Devin Nunes, both staunch Trump defenders.
