Ernie Banks receives Presidential Medal of Freedom...

[Upton]

Cubs legend Ernie Banks was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom by President Barack Obama on Wednesday in Washington, D.C.

The Medal of Freedom, established in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy, is presented to individuals who have made “an especially meritorious contribution to the security and national interests of the United States, world peace, cultural or other significant public or private endeavors.” Recipients of the award are chosen by the president, with the assistance of the Distinguished Civilian Service Awards Board.

Banks was one of 16 Americans honored Wednesday, in a group that included former President Bill Clinton, media icon Oprah Winfrey, former astronaut Sally Ride, feminist Gloria Steinem and North Carolina basketball coach Dean Smith.

http://tracking.si.com/2013/11/20/ernie-banks-medal-of-freedom/?section=si_latest

[hughee99]

1. Congrats to Banks and the other recipients.

How long until repukes start complaining that Oprah "bought" her Medal of Freedom?

[joeybee12]

2. Hey, I'll complain!

She really bugs me.