Bill Belichick turns down Presidential Medal of Freedom from Donald Trump, cites Capitol attack
S E E D E D C O N T E N T
Bill Belichick cited "great reverence for our nation's values" in turning down the president. (AP Photo/Andrew Harnik)
Belichick cited the attack in his announcement.
“Recently, I was offered the opportunity to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which I was flattered by out of respect for what the honor represents and admiration for prior recipients,” Belichick wrote. “Subsequently, the tragic events of last week occurred and the decision has been made not to move forward with the award.
“Above all, I am an American citizen with great reverence for our nation’s values, freedom and democracy. I know I also represent my family and the New England Patriots team.
“One of the most rewarding things in my professional career took place in 2020 when, through the great leadership within our team, conversations about social justice, equality and human rights moved to the forefront and became actions. Continuing those efforts while remaining true to the people, team and country I love outweigh the benefits of any individual award.”
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Trump has awarded the medal 25 times since taking office, including 14 times to sports figures. Golfers Gary Player and Annika Sorenstam drew criticism last week for accepting the medal in a closed-door ceremony less than 24 hours after the attack on the Capitol that left five dead and sent senators and representatives fleeing for safety.
Trump urging his supporters to march on the Capitol in a speech before the attack that ransacked the institution. The horde invaded the Capitol in an effort to subvert the electoral college vote certifying President-elect Joe Biden as Trump’s successor. Biden will be sworn into office on Jan. 20.
The Patriots did not visit the White House amid an increasingly hostile political climate following their 2019 Super Bowl victory.
Trump has also awarded the honor to political allies and right-wing extremists Rush Limbaugh, Rep. Jim Jordan and Rep. Devin Nunes, decisions considered by many an affront to nation’s highest civilian honor.
trump has shit on the honor of receiving the medal.
What person of character would want an honor bestowed by Trump?
Even the dog he awarded one doesn't want it.
After Gary Player and Annika Sorenstam, both professional golfers going to the WH the day after the insurrection by white supremacists to accept the Medal of Freedom, it's refreshing to see someone that has America at heart.
Kudos to Bill B.
Those two players will find out that their medals and five bucks will only get them a cup of coffee.
Wise move.
The Medal of Freedom has become a silly, political thing.
But it shouldn't have and shouldn't be....
Thanks to Trump.
It has and that's a damn shame
Bill Bellichek has been a "friend" of Trump up til now, which makes his refusal probably even more meaningful.
What do you wanna bet he offers it to Brady and Brady accepts?
Not taking that bet.
trmp is crying in his diet coke
Yeah, Trump has made me see that award as being completely meaningless since he has mainly just awarded it to loyalists, friends, or people who he desires to be associated with. Not to anyone who have actually done anything beneficial for society.
Bellichek is a true "Patriot".
Oops. Sorry Krish. I didn't know you beat me to it. Deleting mine now.
Bravo, Mr Belichik.