Pres. Obama honors Bob Dylan, others with Medal of Freedom

(29 May 2012) BARACK OBAMA HONORS BOB DYLAN
President Barack Obama on Tuesday honored 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. He also said he's a really big fan of Dylan's music.
"Bob's voice, with its weight, its unique gravel power, was re-defining not just what music sounded like, but the message it carried and how it made people feel," Obama said. "Today everybody from Bruce Springsteen to U2 owes Bob a debt of gratitude. There is not a bigger giant in the history of American music."
Dylan's vast catalog of songs includes such rock classics as "Like a Rolling Stone," ''Blowin' in the Wind" and "Mr. Tambourine Man."
Other honorees included Tennessee basketball coach Pat Summitt, former Supreme Court justice John Paul Stevens and author Toni Morrison.
The Medal of Freedom is America's highest civilian honor. It is presented to individuals who have made meritorious contributions to the national interests of the United States, to world peace or to other significant endeavors.

Find out more about AP Archive: http://www.aparchive.com/HowWeWork
Twitter:   / ap_archive  
Facebook:   / aparchives   ​​
Instagram:   / apnews  


You can license this story through AP Archive: http://www.aparchive.com/metadata/you...