Jack Nicklaus to receive Congressional Gold Medal
Jack Nicklaus will receive the Congressional Gold Medal on March 24.
The medal, an expression of appreciation to distinguished citizens and the highest civilian honor delegated by Congress, has been awarded to the likes of Neil Armstrong, Jesse Owens and Rosa Parks. Nicklaus joins Arnold Palmer and Byron Nelson as the only golfers to earn the recognition. The legislation received President Barack Obama's signature for approval in December.
"Jack Nicklaus is a legend, and without a doubt the greatest golfer of all time. Yet in addition to the Golden Bear's career in golf, he is a dedicated philanthropist who has made a difference in communities across America," said Sen. Rob Portman, a Republican from Nicklaus' native Ohio, who co-sponsored the legislation with Sen. Sherrod Brown, a Democrat from Ohio.
Nicklaus, 75, the all-time leader in major championship victories with 18, was born in Columbus and played at Ohio State.
"I had the fortunate pleasure in 2012 to attend and participate in Arnold's Congressional Gold Medal ceremony, and I witnessed how special and meaningful it was to him," Nicklaus said. "I am honored and humbled to have the opportunity to experience that, as well, and to be a part of a very special group of past recipients."
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