
01/06/2025
đşđ¸This past Saturday the President bestowed one of the nationâs highest honors to core members of the political, financial and celebrity establishment in the East Room of the White House. In previous years the award has been presented to a host of cultural, corporate and political figures, including Babe Ruth, Mother Teresa, Martin Luther King, Julia Child and Maya Angelou.
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Ralph Lauren became the first fashion designer to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedomâchosen for his âextraordinary contributions as a visionary designer, trailblazing entrepreneur, innovative business leader, and dedicated philanthropist.â Upon receiving the award, Mr. Lauren said, âAmerica is my countryâmy home and its history, traditions and values have always been an inspiration⌠As a proud American citizen, I accept it with gratitude and great humility.â Over the years the designer has dressed everyone from rockstars to royaltyâpoliticians, princesses, national celebritiesâsome of the worldâs most powerful people and even the US Olympic team. His contributions to American style, culture and society for more than six decades have earned him the James Smithson Bicentennial Medal, Franceâs Chevalier de la LĂŠgion dâHonneur, and an Honorary Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE).
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David LaurenâChief Branding and Innovation Officer of Ralph Laurenâwas present for the ceremony and said, âWhen I think of my father I am always moved most by his humility and kindness. No matter the size of the honor or the accolades he has received, he has always been a dedicated father and husband and he has always understood how to create a world around him filled with love and warmth!â
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đ¸ Ralph and Ricky Lauren with their dog, Rugby, at home in Bedford, New York