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Remarks by President Trump at Presentation of the Presidential Medal of Freedom
While Alan was still playing for the Vikings, he went to law school and earned a law degree from the University of Minnesota Law School. In 1993, he became the first African American Justice on the Minnesota Supreme Court, where he served for more than two decades. That's very impressive. What do you think? That's a very impressive job. Really, it is. Thank you, Alan.
Alan and his wife Diane founded the Page Education Foundation, which has provided nearly 7,000 scholarships to civic-minded students. Sadly, one month ago, Diane passed away after a heroic struggle with cancer. Said to be a great woman. Alan, we know that the goodness, grace, and hope that Diane brought into our world will live on for many generations to come. She is looking down on you right now and she is so proud with love. She is so proud of you.
Alan is joined today by three of their children: Georgianna, Justin, and Kamie. Please stand up. Please stand up. (Applause.) Thank you. Thank you. That's a great honor. Thank you.
It is also my honor today to award the Medal of Freedom to one of the most celebrated sports heroes in world history. The "Sultan of Swat", the "Great Bambino" - the one and only Babe Ruth. He truly is - when you think - I mean, let's face it, Babe Ruth is Babe Ruth. Right?
George Herman "Babe" Ruth, Jr. - he was a "junior" - I can imagine what his father was like - (laughter) - he must have been tough - lived from 1895 to 1948, learning the game of baseball from Catholic Brothers at his orphanage. At the age of 19, he was signed by the Boston Red Sox as a pitcher, and soon became one of the best pitchers in baseball. People don't know that. Babe Ruth was one of the best pitchers. He still has records today.
In 1920, he started with the New York Yankees. And I have heard for many years - what's the worst trade in the history of sports? Babe Ruth, 19-year-old pitcher, for $100,000 and a 35-year-old third baseman. That was not a good trade - who was out of baseball the following season. That was not good. Of course, $100,000 is probably like $25 million today, but it was still a lousy deal. (Laughter.)
But he became one of the greatest hitters of all-time. They drafted him. They took him as a pitcher, but they knew they wanted to make him a hitter. In fact, we have George Steinbrenner IV - George Steinbrenner was one of my best friends. He was tough. He was tough, but he was good. Where is George Steinbrenner IV - his grandson? He's here someplace. Where is he? Thank you very much. Would you say hello to the family? That's very nice that you're here. Please. (Applause.)
George - George was a real piece of work, I have to tell you that. (Laughter.) Your grandfather was very difficult, but he was good. He had a good heart. (Laughter.) Sitting with George during the playoffs, as I often had to do, was like you'd go home exhausted. (Laughter.) It was exhausting. So thank you for being here. Thank you very much.
The Babe hit 714 homeruns - a record that stood for nearly 40 years. And people often would say that was a somewhat dead ball; it didn't have the life the ball has today. He would often hit more homeruns in a season than the league average for an entire team. And, in one season, hit more homeruns than the entire American League. How do you do that? To this day, his career slugging percentage of 690 remains the highest in the history of baseball. Hard to believe, actually.
The Babe was also known for his devotion to our nation and its children. He visited countless children in hospitals and orphanages, supported more than 100 charities, raised money, and raised hell. He was - maybe that's why it's taken him a long time to get this award. This award should have been given to him a long time ago. I said, "You mean Babe Ruth hasn't gotten it?" We took care of that real fast. But he was incredible. But he raised a lot of money for the war effort during World War II.
As we honor the legend who enshrined baseball as "America's Pastime," we are excited to be joined by a number of Babe Ruth's descendants, including his grandchildren Donna Analovitch and Tom Stevens. And I want to thank you very much for being here. Please stand up. Please. Thank you very much. (Applause.) Thank you. Thank you very much. Thank you, Tom.
Our final Medal of Freedom - and here's another one who's just very incredible - today goes to one of the most beloved artists and most enduring cultural icons that has ever lived. The "King of Rock and Roll" - the true king, and you have to say that - Elvis Aaron Presley.
(Musical clip from "How Great Thou Art" is played.)
That was Elvis. That was my idea. I said, "Give me a little - a little song." (Laughter.) That was, I guess, a little promotional ability. But I will tell you, he was something special. I'd like to hear the rest of the song. I don't know why they cut it off so short. (Laughter.) They have no promotional ability, that's why. (Laughter.)
Growing up from humble beginnings in Mississippi, Elvis lived from 1935 to 1977, and first rose to fame with the 1954 single, "That's All Right," recorded at the fabled Sun Studios in Memphis, Tennessee. Great place.
He soon skyrocketed to international stardom, recording over three decades of unforgettable hits - from "Heartbreak Hotel," to "Suspicious Minds," to "Burning Love." Elvis also won three Grammys for his gospel recordings, which were incredible, including his soaring live performance of "How Great Thou Art" -just got to hear a little piece of.
Deeply patriotic, Elvis served in the U.S. military at the height of his fame. He had a choice. And, to him, it wasn't a choice.
Presley starred in more than 30 films. And his 1973 television special, "Elvis: Aloha from Hawaii," was viewed by more than a billion people around the world. One of the highest ever in the history of television.
After redefining music in the fifties and redefining cinema in the sixties, "The King" - as he was known by everybody - everybody, to this day, they call him "The King - revolutionized live performances in the 1970s.
From the moment Elvis walked on the stage to the closing chords of "Can't Help Falling in Love," crowds were enraptured by Elvis's electric performances and unbreakable bond with his fans.
In fact, at the end of a performance, oftentimes the fans would go so wild - I was there once in Las Vegas, at the Hilton. The fans were ripping the place apart, screaming. They were going crazy. And they announced, "Elvis has left the house. Elvis..." If they didn't say that, I think I'd still be there. Maybe I wouldn't be here. (Laughter.) But they had to do that. "Elvis has gone. Elvis has left."
Today, we are glad to be joined by President and CEO of Elvis Presley Enterprises, Jack Soden. Jack, thank you very much.
I want to congratulate all of this year's recipients, and family members, and loved ones. America is blessed to have the most skill, passion, and talent anywhere on Earth. We are truly a great nation, and we're a nation that is doing really, really well right now. We have our greatest economy ever. We have our greatest employment numbers ever. We're doing well. And we're proud to be doing so well.
And I'd like to now ask the military aide to come forward and read the citations for each recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Thank you.
MILITARY AIDE: The honorable Orrin G. Hatch. Senator Orrin Hatch is one of the longest serving senators in American history, having represented Utah for more than 41 years. Currently the Senate's President pro tempore and Chairman of the Finance Committee, Senator Hatch has sponsored more bills that have become law than any other living Member of Congress. He has led the way in confirming qualified judges throughout the Federal judiciary in order to protect our constitutional order, and has championed religious liberty, fought against communism, and stood on the side of freedom around the world. Senator Hatch's dedication to the Senate, the country, and the rule of law has helped make our country what it is today, and for that, we honor him. (Applause.)
The honorable Antonin Scalia. Antonin Scalia was one of the greatest Supreme Court Justices in American history. Confirmed unanimously in 1986, Justice Scalia authored nearly 900 Supreme Court opinions. He was a champion of the Constitution, insisting that the role of federal judges is to uphold the original meaning of the Constitution, never to impose their own beliefs on the country. Justice Scalia's legal philosophy is rooted in America's founding principles, legal heritage, and constitutional obligations. He never backed down from the bedrock proposition that the Constitution "means and will always mean what it meant when it was adopted." Justice Scalia's devotion to the rule of law has left a lasting legacy for our country, and we now honor this giant of the Supreme Court. (Applause.)
Dr. Miriam Adelson. Miriam Adelson is a committed doctor, philanthropist, and humanitarian. She has practiced internal and emergency medicine, studied and specialized in the disease of narcotic addiction, and founded two research centers committed to fighting substance abuse. She and her husband Sheldon also established the Adelson Medical Research Foundation, which supports research to prevent, reduce, or eliminate disabling and life-threatening illness. As a committed member of the American Jewish community, she has supported Jewish schools, Holocaust memorial organizations, Friends of the Israel Defense Forces, and Birthright Israel, among other causes. The United States is proud to recognize Dr. Adelson for an incredible career and record of service to her community and the country. (Applause.)
Roger Staubach. Hall-of-Fame quarterback Roger Staubach played 11 seasons in the National Football League, winning two Super Bowls with the Dallas Cowboys, and making the Pro Bowl six times. He first made his mark on football at the United States Naval Academy, where he set 28 records and won the Heisman Trophy in 1963. Soon after graduating, Mr. Staubach volunteered to fight in the Vietnam War. Following his football career, he was a successful businessman and a champion for many charitable causes, including the United Way of America; the Children's Scholarship Fund; and Allies in Service, an organization devoted to supporting servicemembers, veterans, and their spouses. The United States now honors Mr. Staubach's life of service and accomplishment on and off the field. (Applause.)
The Honorable Alan C. Page. (Applause.) Justice Alan Page is an accomplished jurist, athlete, and philanthropist. After a successful college football career at the University of Notre Dame, he played 15 years in the National Football League with the Minnesota Vikings and Chicago Bears. He started in four Super Bowls, was named the NFL's Most Valuable Player in 1971, and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1988. While playing for the Vikings, he obtained his law degree and practiced law during the off-season. After retiring from the NFL in 1981, Justice Page practiced law full-time before winning a seat on the Minnesota Supreme Court in 1992. He served for more than 20 years. Since 1988, his Page Education Foundation has provided scholarships to nearly 7,000 students. The United States proudly recognizes Justice Page's athletic accomplishments and lifetime of public service and philanthropy. (Applause.)
George Herman "Babe" Ruth, Jr. Babe Ruth played for four baseball teams between 1914 and 1935. He set records that stood for decades, including 714 homeruns, 2,873 hits, 2,174 runs, and 2,062 walks, and he remains unmatched with a .690 slugging percentage. Over 15 legendary seasons, Babe Ruth led the Yankees to seven American League championships and four World Series championships. His legacy has never been eclipsed, and he remains the personification of "America's Pastime." Off the baseball field, he created The Babe Ruth Foundation and tirelessly raised funds for the war effort during the Second World War. The United States proudly honors an American hero who forever changed the landscape of American sports. (Applause.)
Elvis Aaron Presley. Elvis Presley defined American culture to billions of adoring fans around the world. The "King of Rock and Roll," Elvis fused gospel, country, and rhythm and blues to create a sound all his own, selling more than a billion records. Elvis also served nearly two years in the United States Army, humbly accepting the call to serve despite his fame. He starred in 31 films, drew record-breaking audiences to his shows, sent television ratings soaring, and earned 14 Grammy Award nominations. He ultimately won three Grammy Awards for his gospel music. Decades after his passing, Elvis Presley remains an enduring and beloved American icon. The United States is proud to honor this American legend. (Applause.)
THE PRESIDENT: I just want to thank everybody. These are outstanding individuals and we are so proud to have them represent us for so many years. And it's a great honor to have everybody with us.
And on behalf of the First Lady Melania, myself, thank you all for being here. This has been extraordinary. Thank you very much. Thank you. (Applause.)
Go Back
Alan and his wife Diane founded the Page Education Foundation, which has provided nearly 7,000 scholarships to civic-minded students. Sadly, one month ago, Diane passed away after a heroic struggle with cancer. Said to be a great woman. Alan, we know that the goodness, grace, and hope that Diane brought into our world will live on for many generations to come. She is looking down on you right now and she is so proud with love. She is so proud of you.
Alan is joined today by three of their children: Georgianna, Justin, and Kamie. Please stand up. Please stand up. (Applause.) Thank you. Thank you. That's a great honor. Thank you.
It is also my honor today to award the Medal of Freedom to one of the most celebrated sports heroes in world history. The "Sultan of Swat", the "Great Bambino" - the one and only Babe Ruth. He truly is - when you think - I mean, let's face it, Babe Ruth is Babe Ruth. Right?
George Herman "Babe" Ruth, Jr. - he was a "junior" - I can imagine what his father was like - (laughter) - he must have been tough - lived from 1895 to 1948, learning the game of baseball from Catholic Brothers at his orphanage. At the age of 19, he was signed by the Boston Red Sox as a pitcher, and soon became one of the best pitchers in baseball. People don't know that. Babe Ruth was one of the best pitchers. He still has records today.
In 1920, he started with the New York Yankees. And I have heard for many years - what's the worst trade in the history of sports? Babe Ruth, 19-year-old pitcher, for $100,000 and a 35-year-old third baseman. That was not a good trade - who was out of baseball the following season. That was not good. Of course, $100,000 is probably like $25 million today, but it was still a lousy deal. (Laughter.)
But he became one of the greatest hitters of all-time. They drafted him. They took him as a pitcher, but they knew they wanted to make him a hitter. In fact, we have George Steinbrenner IV - George Steinbrenner was one of my best friends. He was tough. He was tough, but he was good. Where is George Steinbrenner IV - his grandson? He's here someplace. Where is he? Thank you very much. Would you say hello to the family? That's very nice that you're here. Please. (Applause.)
George - George was a real piece of work, I have to tell you that. (Laughter.) Your grandfather was very difficult, but he was good. He had a good heart. (Laughter.) Sitting with George during the playoffs, as I often had to do, was like you'd go home exhausted. (Laughter.) It was exhausting. So thank you for being here. Thank you very much.
The Babe hit 714 homeruns - a record that stood for nearly 40 years. And people often would say that was a somewhat dead ball; it didn't have the life the ball has today. He would often hit more homeruns in a season than the league average for an entire team. And, in one season, hit more homeruns than the entire American League. How do you do that? To this day, his career slugging percentage of 690 remains the highest in the history of baseball. Hard to believe, actually.
The Babe was also known for his devotion to our nation and its children. He visited countless children in hospitals and orphanages, supported more than 100 charities, raised money, and raised hell. He was - maybe that's why it's taken him a long time to get this award. This award should have been given to him a long time ago. I said, "You mean Babe Ruth hasn't gotten it?" We took care of that real fast. But he was incredible. But he raised a lot of money for the war effort during World War II.
As we honor the legend who enshrined baseball as "America's Pastime," we are excited to be joined by a number of Babe Ruth's descendants, including his grandchildren Donna Analovitch and Tom Stevens. And I want to thank you very much for being here. Please stand up. Please. Thank you very much. (Applause.) Thank you. Thank you very much. Thank you, Tom.
Our final Medal of Freedom - and here's another one who's just very incredible - today goes to one of the most beloved artists and most enduring cultural icons that has ever lived. The "King of Rock and Roll" - the true king, and you have to say that - Elvis Aaron Presley.
(Musical clip from "How Great Thou Art" is played.)
That was Elvis. That was my idea. I said, "Give me a little - a little song." (Laughter.) That was, I guess, a little promotional ability. But I will tell you, he was something special. I'd like to hear the rest of the song. I don't know why they cut it off so short. (Laughter.) They have no promotional ability, that's why. (Laughter.)
Growing up from humble beginnings in Mississippi, Elvis lived from 1935 to 1977, and first rose to fame with the 1954 single, "That's All Right," recorded at the fabled Sun Studios in Memphis, Tennessee. Great place.
He soon skyrocketed to international stardom, recording over three decades of unforgettable hits - from "Heartbreak Hotel," to "Suspicious Minds," to "Burning Love." Elvis also won three Grammys for his gospel recordings, which were incredible, including his soaring live performance of "How Great Thou Art" -just got to hear a little piece of.
Deeply patriotic, Elvis served in the U.S. military at the height of his fame. He had a choice. And, to him, it wasn't a choice.
Presley starred in more than 30 films. And his 1973 television special, "Elvis: Aloha from Hawaii," was viewed by more than a billion people around the world. One of the highest ever in the history of television.
After redefining music in the fifties and redefining cinema in the sixties, "The King" - as he was known by everybody - everybody, to this day, they call him "The King - revolutionized live performances in the 1970s.
From the moment Elvis walked on the stage to the closing chords of "Can't Help Falling in Love," crowds were enraptured by Elvis's electric performances and unbreakable bond with his fans.
In fact, at the end of a performance, oftentimes the fans would go so wild - I was there once in Las Vegas, at the Hilton. The fans were ripping the place apart, screaming. They were going crazy. And they announced, "Elvis has left the house. Elvis..." If they didn't say that, I think I'd still be there. Maybe I wouldn't be here. (Laughter.) But they had to do that. "Elvis has gone. Elvis has left."
Today, we are glad to be joined by President and CEO of Elvis Presley Enterprises, Jack Soden. Jack, thank you very much.
I want to congratulate all of this year's recipients, and family members, and loved ones. America is blessed to have the most skill, passion, and talent anywhere on Earth. We are truly a great nation, and we're a nation that is doing really, really well right now. We have our greatest economy ever. We have our greatest employment numbers ever. We're doing well. And we're proud to be doing so well.
And I'd like to now ask the military aide to come forward and read the citations for each recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Thank you.
MILITARY AIDE: The honorable Orrin G. Hatch. Senator Orrin Hatch is one of the longest serving senators in American history, having represented Utah for more than 41 years. Currently the Senate's President pro tempore and Chairman of the Finance Committee, Senator Hatch has sponsored more bills that have become law than any other living Member of Congress. He has led the way in confirming qualified judges throughout the Federal judiciary in order to protect our constitutional order, and has championed religious liberty, fought against communism, and stood on the side of freedom around the world. Senator Hatch's dedication to the Senate, the country, and the rule of law has helped make our country what it is today, and for that, we honor him. (Applause.)
The honorable Antonin Scalia. Antonin Scalia was one of the greatest Supreme Court Justices in American history. Confirmed unanimously in 1986, Justice Scalia authored nearly 900 Supreme Court opinions. He was a champion of the Constitution, insisting that the role of federal judges is to uphold the original meaning of the Constitution, never to impose their own beliefs on the country. Justice Scalia's legal philosophy is rooted in America's founding principles, legal heritage, and constitutional obligations. He never backed down from the bedrock proposition that the Constitution "means and will always mean what it meant when it was adopted." Justice Scalia's devotion to the rule of law has left a lasting legacy for our country, and we now honor this giant of the Supreme Court. (Applause.)
Dr. Miriam Adelson. Miriam Adelson is a committed doctor, philanthropist, and humanitarian. She has practiced internal and emergency medicine, studied and specialized in the disease of narcotic addiction, and founded two research centers committed to fighting substance abuse. She and her husband Sheldon also established the Adelson Medical Research Foundation, which supports research to prevent, reduce, or eliminate disabling and life-threatening illness. As a committed member of the American Jewish community, she has supported Jewish schools, Holocaust memorial organizations, Friends of the Israel Defense Forces, and Birthright Israel, among other causes. The United States is proud to recognize Dr. Adelson for an incredible career and record of service to her community and the country. (Applause.)
Roger Staubach. Hall-of-Fame quarterback Roger Staubach played 11 seasons in the National Football League, winning two Super Bowls with the Dallas Cowboys, and making the Pro Bowl six times. He first made his mark on football at the United States Naval Academy, where he set 28 records and won the Heisman Trophy in 1963. Soon after graduating, Mr. Staubach volunteered to fight in the Vietnam War. Following his football career, he was a successful businessman and a champion for many charitable causes, including the United Way of America; the Children's Scholarship Fund; and Allies in Service, an organization devoted to supporting servicemembers, veterans, and their spouses. The United States now honors Mr. Staubach's life of service and accomplishment on and off the field. (Applause.)
The Honorable Alan C. Page. (Applause.) Justice Alan Page is an accomplished jurist, athlete, and philanthropist. After a successful college football career at the University of Notre Dame, he played 15 years in the National Football League with the Minnesota Vikings and Chicago Bears. He started in four Super Bowls, was named the NFL's Most Valuable Player in 1971, and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 1988. While playing for the Vikings, he obtained his law degree and practiced law during the off-season. After retiring from the NFL in 1981, Justice Page practiced law full-time before winning a seat on the Minnesota Supreme Court in 1992. He served for more than 20 years. Since 1988, his Page Education Foundation has provided scholarships to nearly 7,000 students. The United States proudly recognizes Justice Page's athletic accomplishments and lifetime of public service and philanthropy. (Applause.)
George Herman "Babe" Ruth, Jr. Babe Ruth played for four baseball teams between 1914 and 1935. He set records that stood for decades, including 714 homeruns, 2,873 hits, 2,174 runs, and 2,062 walks, and he remains unmatched with a .690 slugging percentage. Over 15 legendary seasons, Babe Ruth led the Yankees to seven American League championships and four World Series championships. His legacy has never been eclipsed, and he remains the personification of "America's Pastime." Off the baseball field, he created The Babe Ruth Foundation and tirelessly raised funds for the war effort during the Second World War. The United States proudly honors an American hero who forever changed the landscape of American sports. (Applause.)
Elvis Aaron Presley. Elvis Presley defined American culture to billions of adoring fans around the world. The "King of Rock and Roll," Elvis fused gospel, country, and rhythm and blues to create a sound all his own, selling more than a billion records. Elvis also served nearly two years in the United States Army, humbly accepting the call to serve despite his fame. He starred in 31 films, drew record-breaking audiences to his shows, sent television ratings soaring, and earned 14 Grammy Award nominations. He ultimately won three Grammy Awards for his gospel music. Decades after his passing, Elvis Presley remains an enduring and beloved American icon. The United States is proud to honor this American legend. (Applause.)
THE PRESIDENT: I just want to thank everybody. These are outstanding individuals and we are so proud to have them represent us for so many years. And it's a great honor to have everybody with us.
And on behalf of the First Lady Melania, myself, thank you all for being here. This has been extraordinary. Thank you very much. Thank you. (Applause.)
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