Watch | President Obama awards Medals of Freedom as his tenure ends

US President Obama awarded Medals of Freedom in a star studded event at the White House. Among the recipients of the award were actors Tom Hanks, Robert De Niro and Robert Redford. Michael Jordan and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, two of the best basketball players ever, were also among the honorees. While, Bruce Springsteen and Diana Ross were recognized for their music. Other awardees included philanthropists Bill and Melinda Gates, comedian Ellen DeGeneres and broadcaster Vin Scully. Considered the nation's highest civilian honor, the award recognizes meritorious contributions to the national interests of the United States, to its culture, or to other significant endeavors.