The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest honor the United States government awards a civilian. In order to be considered for this prestigious medal a person must make “an especially meritorious contribution to the security of national interests of the United States, or world peace, or cultural or other significant public or private endeavors,” according to an Executive Order. President Ronald Reagan awarded Billy Graham this distinguished medal on February 23, 1983. Mr. Graham remarked about receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom, “I felt unworthy of the honor, and still do.”