Former President George H.W. Bush is not only being honored for his one term in office but what he's done since. That includes raising cash for Asian tsunami and hurricane Katrina victims.
The Medal of Freedom — the nation's highest civilian honor — has often been a non-partisan one. Bush is among six former presidents and four former first ladies to receive it.
Others being honored Tuesday include investor Warren Buffett, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, cellist Yo-Yo Ma, basketball great Bill Russell and Baseball Hall of Famer Stan Musial.