Justice Stevens Awarded ‘Medal of Freedom’

President Obama presented Justice John Paul Stevens with the Medal of Freedom yesterday. The Presidential Medal of Freedom is an award given by the president and is the highest civilian award in the United States. President Obama commented at the ceremony:

“From the Navy to the bench, John Paul Stevens has devoted himself to service to our nation. After earning a Bronze Star in World War II, Stevens returned home to pursue a career in law. As an attorney, he became a leading practitioner of anti-trust law. And as a Supreme Court Justice, he dedicated his long and distinguished tenure to applying our Constitution with fidelity and independence. His integrity, humility, and steadfast commitment to the rule of law have fortified the noble vision of our nation’s founders.”

Elena Kagan replaced Justice Stevens, the third longest serving Justice of the Supreme Court, in 2010.