On December 10th, 2008, President George W. Bush presented Ward Brehm with the esteemed Presidential Citizens Medal, the country’s second-highest civilian honor, during a ceremony held in the Oval Office.
Established in 1969, the Citizens Medal is designed to acknowledge U.S. citizens who have demonstrated exceptional acts of service to the nation, as outlined by the White House.
Recognized as one of the highest honors bestowed upon civilians, the medal ranks second only to the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
Ward Brehm joined the ranks of twenty-two individuals who were also recipients of the Citizens Medal, including one award presented posthumously.
The ceremony, capturing a poignant moment, took place within the hallowed walls of the Oval Office.
According to WhiteHouse.gov, Ward Brehm’s distinguished recognition stems from his dedication as a public servant, author, and humanitarian, with a focus on advancing economic and social development in Africa.
Brehm’s collaborative efforts with the people of Africa have contributed significantly to providing clean water to rural communities, combating poverty, and expanding opportunities.
The United States honors Brehm for his commitment to replacing disease and despair with healing and hope.
The White House conveyed its congratulations to Ward Brehm, emphasizing his impactful contributions in the pursuit of positive change in Africa, “As a public servant, author, and humanitarian, Ward Brehm has committed himself to enhancing economic and social development in Africa. He has worked in partnership with the people of Africa to provide clean water to rural communities, fight poverty, and extend opportunity. The United States honors Ward Brehm for his work to replace disease and despair with healing and hope.”
