US President Joe Biden presents the Presidential Medal of Freedom to former US Vice President Al Gore (L) in the East Room of the White House in Washington, DC, on May 3, 2024. The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the Nation's highest civilian honor, presented to individuals who have made exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavors. (Photo by ANDREW CABALLERO-REYNOLDS / AFP)