Trump to Honor Giuliani with Medal of Freedom
On Monday, former President Donald Trump announced he will present the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Rudy Giuliani, the ex-mayor of New York City. This news surfaced shortly after Giuliani’s recent incident in Manchester, New Hampshire.
The New Hampshire State Police reported that Giuliani and his driver, Theodore Goodman, were flagged down on Saturday evening by a woman involved in a domestic violence situation on Interstate 93 southbound.
At 81, Giuliani and Goodman stopped to assist the woman, notified the police, and remained with her until the authorities arrived. However, after they left, their rental Ford Bronco was struck from behind by a Honda HR-V, which authorities stated was almost immediately after the domestic incident.
The Honda’s driver, identified as 19-year-old Lauren Kemp from Concord, reportedly had no connection to the earlier incident. As of Sunday evening, no charges had been filed against her.
Fortunately, the troopers on the scene provided first aid promptly. Both Kemp and Goodman sustained injuries that were not life-threatening.
Giuliani’s security officer, Michael Ragusa, indicated that Giuliani was taken to a local trauma center, where doctors diagnosed him with a broken spine, several tears, and other injuries, including damage to his left arm and lower limb. Ragusa also noted, “This was not a targeted attack,” urging respect for Giuliani’s privacy during his recovery and asking to avoid spreading unfounded conspiracy theories.
Arthur Adara, a friend of Giuliani, mentioned that the former mayor seemed to be in good spirits after being discharged from the hospital Monday afternoon, saying, “I have healing to do, but otherwise I’m in great shape.”
Trump emphasized Giuliani’s significant contributions, stating, “As President of the United States, Rudy Giuliani, the most prominent mayor in New York City’s history, as well as a remarkable American patriot, will be awarded the nation’s highest civilian honor.”
Giuliani held the position of mayor from 1994 to 2001 and is often praised for his actions during the crime decline in the city, along with his leadership during the aftermath of the 9/11 attacks.
Further details about the award’s timing and location will be announced soon. Trump concluded, “Thank you for focusing on this important matter. Make America great again!”
The Presidential Medal of Freedom was established in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy, intended to honor individuals who have made notable contributions to American culture, security, or other significant public or private endeavors.
Giuliani’s leadership has earned him recognition, including a knighthood from Queen Elizabeth II and the title of Time magazine’s Person of the Year in 2001.
