Bob Dylan has been awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom – the highest honour that can be bestowed upon a US civillian.
According to Billboard, the legendary singer/songwriter will receive his honour in late spring alongside 12 other recipients, following an announcement by US president Barack Obama on Thursday. Some of the other recipients include Israeli Prime Minister Shimon Peres and novelist Toni Morrison.
A press release issued by the White House states that the Medal of Freedom recognizes “individuals who have made especially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavours.”
“These extraordinary honorees come from different backgrounds and different walks of life, but each of them has made a lasting contribution to the life of our nation,” President Obama said.
“They’ve challenged us, they’ve inspired us, and they’ve made the world a better place. I look forward to recognizing them with this award.”
