Hall of Fame broadcaster Vin Scully, who retired last month after 67 years as the voice of the Dodgers, will receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom on Tuesday at the White House, The Associated Press reported. And in his typically understated style, Scully said he was "overwhelmed" and "humbled" by the selection.
Scully, who turns 89 on Nov. 29, is one of 21 recipients of the nation's highest civilian honor. Other sports figures who will be honored by President Barack Obama are NBA Hall of Famers Michael Jordan and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Actors Cicely Tyson, Robert De Niro and Tom Hanks also will receive the medal, along with musician Bruce Springsteen and comedian Ellen DeGeneres.
Scully said he was “overwhelmed” when he took the call from White House press secretary Josh Earnest, according to a tweet by the Dodgers that included a video of the telephone conversation.
“Oh, my gosh. No. Are you sure?” Scully said. “I’m just an old baseball announcer.”
Scully began his career with the Brooklyn Dodgers in 1950. He moved west with the team when the franchise relocated to Los Angeles in 1958. Scully also called national telecasts in pro football and golf.
The award is given to individuals who have made meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the U.S., to world peace or cultural or other major public/private endeavors.
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