"Rock and roll promised a freedom that could not be contained or silenced, an international language of liberation," U2 singer writes in op-ed marking the highest civilian honor

Bono is expressing his gratitude after receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The legendary U2 frontman was among 19 individuals to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor,

Other new honorees include Denzel Washington, Bill Nye, Michael J. Fox, and Lionel Messi. Bono to Receive Presidential Medal of Freedom

President Biden named former secretary of state Hillary Clinton, actor Denzel Washington, billionaire George Soros and Bono, lead singer of the rock band U2, among 19 recipients of the Presidential Medal of Freedom on Saturday. Why it matters: The award is the nation's highest civilian honor.

Bono is a rather established entertainer. As the frontman of U2, the “ Atomic City ” musician has crushed several records. As an individual, Bono has leveraged his fame to raise awareness for many notable social causes. Today (January 4), Bono’s efforts on both ends were acknowledged by the nation’s highest office.

President Joe Biden will bestow the Presidential Medal of Freedom to 19 of the most famous names in politics, sports, entertainment, civil rights, LGBTQ+ advocacy and science.

Actor and advocate Michael J. Fox received the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his ongoing efforts with The Michael J. Fox Foundation for Parkinson’s Research.

Michael J. Fox gained worldwide recognition beginning in 1982 on the NBC sitcom Family Ties and continued his rise to fame for the next four decades. The Back to the Future star was born in Alberta, Canada,