Ellsworth F. Bunker was an American businessman and diplomat. He is perhaps best known for being a hawk on the war in Vietnam and Southeast Asia during the 1960s and 1970s. As of February 2024, Bunker is one of only two people to have been awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom twice, and the only person to receive both awards With Distinction.
Bunker in 1965
Ellsworth Bunker with Indonesian President Sukarno at Merdeka Palace during a visit to Jakarta, Indonesia March 1965.
Ellsworth Bunker with President Lyndon B. Johnson and Secretary of Defense Clark Clifford at Camp David, Maryland April 1968.
Presidential Medal of Freedom
The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian award of the United States, alongside the Congressional Gold Medal. It is an award bestowed by decision of the president of the United States to recognize people who have made "an especially meritorious contribution to the security or national interests of the United States, world peace, cultural or other significant public or private endeavors". The award is not limited to U.S. citizens, and, while it is a civilian award, it can also be awarded to military personnel and worn on the uniform. It was established in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy, superseding the Medal of Freedom that was initially established by President Harry S. Truman in 1945 to honor civilian service.
Medal and accoutrements, including the service ribbon, miniature and lapel badge
The Presidential Medal of Freedom with Distinction, as worn with white tie
A. Philip Randolph receiving the Medal from President Lyndon Johnson at one of the first ceremonies, 1964
President Richard Nixon presenting the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Duke Ellington, 1969