Obama Paying Tribute To John F. Kennedy's Legacy

Obama Paying Tribute To JFK Legacy

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Barack Obama is paying tribute to John F. Kennedy two days before the 50th anniversary of his assassination by honoring two of the slain president's lasting initiatives and visiting his grave at Arlington National Cemetery.

At the White House on Wednesday, Obama is to bestow the Presidential Medal of Freedom on more than a dozen prominent Americans, including former President Bill Clinton and Oprah Winfrey. Kennedy established the modern version of the medal in the months before he was shot in Dallas on Nov. 22, 1963.

It's the highest award the U.S. gives a civilian.

Afterward, Obama, Clinton and their wives will take part in a wreath-laying ceremony at Kennedy's grave.

Obama also plans an evening speech highlighting Kennedy's legacy of public service.

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John F. Kennedy

John F. Kennedy

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