'Golden Bear' to Receive Congressional Gold Medal


Jack Nicklaus will receive the highest civilian honor awarded by the U.S. Congress, the Congressional Gold Medal. Late Monday night Congress cleared legislation authorizing the award and it now awaits the signature of President Barack Obama.

Sen. Rob Portman, a Republican from Nicklaus' home state of Ohio, co-sponsored the legislation with Sen. Sherrod Brown, a Democrat from Ohio. "Jack Nicklaus is a legend, and without a doubt the greatest golfer of all time," said Sen. Portman.

"Yet in addition to the Golden Bear's career in golf, he is a dedicated philanthropist who has made a difference in communities across America."

Nicklaus joins fellow golfer and longtime rival Arnold Palmer in receiving the award. Other recipients include Rosa Parks, Robert Frost, Joe Louis and Neil Armstrong.

"I had the fortunate pleasure in 2012 to attend and participate in Arnold's Congressional Gold Medal ceremony, and I witnessed how special and meaningful it was to him," Nicklaus said. "I am honored and humbled to have the opportunity to experience that, as well, and to be a part of a very special group of past recipients."

Nicklaus was born and raised near Columbus. He won a record 18 major championships during his brilliant career along with 73 PGA Tour titles. Nicklaus, who also launched a highly successful career as a golf course designer and other golf-related businesses, lives in North Palm Beach, Fla.

He and his wife Barbara founded the Nicklaus Children's Health Care Foundation and other charitable organizations. Nicklaus received the Presidential Medal of Freedom in 2005. He and Palmer are the only golfers to get both national awards.