George W. Bush announcement of Bill Cosby as Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient

George W. Bush announcement of Bill Cosby as Presidential Medal of Freedom recipient

President George W. Bush

THE WHITE HOUSE

June 21, 2002

For Immediate Release

Office of the Press Secretary

June 20, 2002

President Bush Announced the Recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom

**updated June 21, 2002**

President George W. Bush today announced the recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the Nation's highest civilian honor. It was established by President Truman in 1945 to recognize civilians for their service during World War II, and it was reinstated by President Kennedy in 1963 to honor distinguished service. President Bush will award the Medals of Freedom to the recipients at a ceremony in July.

[...] Bill Cosby became one of the most popular television performers of the 1980's with the success of The Cosby Show, which revolutionized the portrayal of African Americans on television. Throughout his career, Dr. Cosby has appealed to the common humanity of his audience, rather than the differences that might divide it. Dr. Cosby's career has included stand up comedy, the adventure show, I Spy, situation comedies and children's programming that highlighted his interest and dedication to education.