"A 95-year-old Native American veteran who wore sacred tribal symbols with his uniform during World War II was among 16 people to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom on Aug. 12 at the White House.

President Obama presented the country’s highest civilian honor to Joe Medicine Crow, who wore a traditional Indian headdress during the ceremony.

Medicine Crow, the oldest Crow Indian, earned the distinction of war chief for his valiant service during World War II.

“Wearing war paint beneath his uniform and a sacred feather beneath his helmet, Joseph Medicine Crow completed the four battlefield deeds that made him the last Crow war chief,” Mr. Obama noted.

The president called Medicine Crow a “warrior and living legend,” noting that his grandfather was a scout who served for Gen. George Custer during the Battle of Little Bighorn."

Get the Story:
Veterans' Journal by George W. Reilly : Medal of Freedom recipient wore native symbols with uniform (The Providence Journal 8/17)

White House Documents:
"Thank You to Some of the Finest Citizens" | 2009 Medal of Freedom Recipients | President Obama Names Medal of Freedom Recipients

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Medicine Crow 'humbled' by presidential honor (7/31)
Joe Medicine Crow to receive Medal of Freedom (7/30)