Sports
Bill Belichick declines Presidential Medal of Freedom provide from Trump
“Lately, I used to be provided the chance to obtain the Presidential Medal of Freedom, which I used to be flattered by out of respect for what the dignity represents and admiration for prior recipients,” Belichick mentioned in a press release. “Subsequently, the tragic occasions of final week occurred and the choice has been made to not transfer ahead with the award. Above all, I’m an American citizen with nice reverence for our nation’s values, freedom and democracy.”
A White Home official instructed the White Home was made conscious of the choice.
Belichick has been the Patriots’ head coach since 2000 and has received six Tremendous Bowls, a NFL report for a head coach.
In 2016, he wrote a letter of assist to Trump. He instructed reporters after Trump gushed approximately the letter: “Our friendship goes again a few years. Anyone who spends greater than 5 minutes with me is aware of I am not a political individual. My feedback are usually not politically motivated. I’ve a friendship with Donald.”
Nonetheless, Belichick had confronted repeated calls to say no the Presidential Medal of Freedom given the President’s response to the US Capitol breach.
“This President has made a mockery of the Presidential Medal of Freedom,” he mentioned. “Take a look at who he’s giving it to within the final weeks — individuals like Devin Nunes and Jim Jordan — I imply, please. Bill Belichick ought to do the fitting factor and say: ‘No thanks.'”
Trump has usually used the Medal of Freedom to reward his allies, whether or not they be monetary, political or simply outdated mates. Representatives Nunes and Jordan have been two of the President’s most vocal political allies who defended him all through his impeachment.
Trump usually delights in them and has executed so for a number of mates, political donors and athletes during the last 4 years.
Bill Belichick concluded his assertion Monday acknowledging, “I additionally characterize my household and the New England Patriots group.”
“Some of the rewarding issues in my skilled profession happened in 2020 when, via the nice management inside our group, conversations approximately social justice, equality and human rights moved to the forefront and have become actions,” he mentioned.
“Persevering with these efforts whereas remaining true to the individuals, group and nation I like outweigh the advantages of any particular person award.”
This story has been up to date with further data Monday.
#Bill #Belichick #declines #Presidential #Medal #Freedom #provide #Trump
