Crapo Lauds LDS President Hinckley

Washington, DC â?? Idaho Senator Mike Crapo will join other dignitaries at the East Room of the White House this afternoon to honor LDS Church President Gordon B. Hinckley and other Presidential Medal of Freedom recipients. Hinckley is among thirteen individuals being honored by President Bush this year for their contributions to the country.â??President Hinckleyâ??s years of service speak volumes about his commitment to reaching out beyond the boundaries of religious belief,â?? Crapo said. â??During his tenure as President of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the Church has increased its humanitarian efforts and provided educational opportunities to many individuals who had not had scholarship opportunities in the past. He is a principled, loving leader who has provided an outstanding example for all those who have come in contact with him. I am honored to be able to participate in the ceremony today and appreciate the recognition afforded to President Hinckley by President Bush.â??The Presidential Medal of Freedom is our nation's highest civil award, given to individuals of exceptional merit and integrity. Other honorees this year include: Pope John Paul II; golf pro Arnold Palmer, National Geographic Society Board Chairman Gilbert Grosvenor; former Massachusetts Senator Edward Brooke, the first black person elected to the Senate; pioneer ophthalmologist and researcher Arnall Patz; former Brown University President Vartan Gregorian; a former head of Citibank Walter Wriston; cosmetics entrepreneur Estee Lauder; and actresses Rita Moreno and Doris Day.The Medal was established in 1945 by President Harry S Truman to recognize civilians for their service during World War II. It was reinstated by President John F. Kennedy in 1963 to honor distinguished service by civilians. Since that time, more than 400 people have been honored. For more information, please go to http://www.medaloffreedom.com.# # #