Bono, Michael J. Fox, and Denzel Washington were Awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom
Among several other luminaries, Bono, Michael J. Fox, and Denzel Washington have been awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the highest civilian honor of the United States. This lofty award is presented to individuals who, with distinction, have made especially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, world peace, cultural, or other significant public or private endeavors.

A Star-Studded White House Ceremony
President Joe Biden presented the Medal of Freedom to 19 remarkable awardees at an investiture at the White House on January 4. U2 lead singer Bono received a medal for being an unsung hero in combating AIDS and poverty.
Global Impact Created by Bono
But Bono has done much more than play music: he's been a force of nature in making leaders on both sides of the aisle take action. The White House referenced his crucial role in establishing the U.S. PEPFAR AIDS program, through which millions of lives have been saved worldwide. He co-founded various influential organizations, including ONE and (RED), that aim for global health and poverty relief.
Today, President Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 great leaders who have made America a better place. pic.twitter.com/d610LtMoes
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) January 4, 2025
Celebrating Excellence
Past recipients include:
- Anna Wintour
- Lionel Messi
- Hillary Clinton
Adding Bono to that illustrious list sharply highlights the huge spectrum of achievements honored with this award. This year's winners all continue that tradition in their special ways of influencing society through their work.