NEW: Trump Announces First Medal Of Freedom Recipient Of Second Term

President Donald Trump announced Monday that former New York City Mayor Rudy Giuliani will be receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation’s highest civilian honor. The announcement marks the first Medal of Freedom nominee of Trump’s second term.

“As President of the United States of America, I am pleased to announce that Rudy Giuliani, the greatest Mayor in the history of New York City, and an equally great American Patriot, will receive THE PRESIDENTIAL MEDAL OF FREEDOM, our Country’s highest civilian honor,” the president posted on Truth Social.

“Details as to time and place to follow. Thank you for your attention to this matter. MAKE AMERICA GREAT AGAIN!!!” 

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is presented, at rhetorical discretion of the president, to individuals who have made “especially meritorious” contributions to the security or national interests of the country, world peace, cultural endeavors, or other significant public or private achievements.

Trump’s announcement comes just one day after Giuliani was seriously injured in a car accident in New Hampshire. According to a spokesperson, the former mayor was assisting a domestic violence victim who had flagged him down at the time of the crash.

While the former mayor was waiting for emergency personnel to arrive, his rental car was struck from behind at a high raid of speed, according to Giuliani’s head of security.

Giuliani was diagnosed with a fractured thoracic vertebrae, multiple lacerations and contusions, and injuries to his left arm and lower leg. Despite his injuries, the former mayor is said to be in good spirits and is working to recover.

Giuliani, who served as mayor of New York City from 1994 to 2001, rose to national prominence in the aftermath of the September 11 attacks in 2001. Following his tenure, “America’s Mayor” launched his own bid for president in 2008 and has served as a staunch ally of President Trump, most notably during his challenges to the 2020 presidential election.

Among those who received the prestigious honor during Trump’s first term in office included the late Senator Orin Hatch, Supreme Court Justice Antonin Scalia, golf legends Tiger Woods and Gary Player, and conservative political commentator Rush Limbaugh, among others.