WHITE HOUSE

Bill Belichick turns down Presidential Medal of Freedom
The NFL coach cited "the tragic events of last week" in rejecting the honor.

Bill Belichick, head coach of the NFL's New England Patriots, turned down the Presidential Medal of Freedom on Monday, citing last week's deadly storming of the Capitol by a mob of President Donald Trump's supporters.

“Recently, I was offered the opportunity to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which I was flattered by out of respect for what the honor represents and admiration for prior recipients. Subsequently, the tragic events of last week occurred and the decision has been made not to move forward with the award," he said in a statement. "Above all, I am an American citizen with great reverence for our nation’s values, freedom and democracy."

Well done Bill!