The U.S. Government aren’t the only government that presents Medal of Freedom Awards.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis has presented five Medal of Freedom Awards to residents he says, “exemplified what it means to be a leader, a visionary, and a proud citizen of our state.”
Via statement, DeSanits added, “I’m proud to recognize their legacies. Our state is better for their contributions, and we’re proud they called Florida home. They have each earned the honor of being awarded the Governor’s Medal of Freedom.”
All posthumous presentations, the five recipients are Bob Graham, Buddy MacKay, Jimmy Buffett, Lincoln Diaz-Balart, and John Thrasher.
Musician Jimmy Buffet made his home in the islands of the Florida Keys but he was loved by people around the world. The rocker died in 2023, but his music will last forever.
Though best known for his music; he also had a business empire that included his signature “Margaritaville” brand. An environmental advocate, he was passionate about preserving marine life and the oceans around his adopted state. A best selling author, Buffett was born in Mississippi.
Lincoln Diaz-Balart was an attorney and politician. Born in Havana, Cuba; he became an advocate for Cuban Liberty.
Bob Graham was a Florida politician who also served as the state’s Governor from 1979 to 1987.
Buddy MacKay was a citrus farmer, lawyer, and Florida politician and former lieutenant governor and governor.
Attorney and Vietnam veteran John Thrasher served as the President for Florida State University from 2014 to 2021.
The Governor’s Medal of Freedom – the highest civilian honour in the state of Florida – was established in 2020 and recognizes persons who “has made an especially meritorious contribution to the interests and citizens of the state, its culture, or other significant public or private endeavor.”
Florida State University Head Football Coach Bobby Bowden was the inaugural recipient of the award in 2021.