PRESIDENT WILLIAM J. "BILL" CLINTON - TYPED LETTER SIGNED 02/20/1997 - HFSID 286042

BILL CLINTON
Bill Clinton sends a typed letter of thanks.
Typed Letter Signed: "Bill" as President, 1p, 6¾x8¾. The White House, Washington, 1997 February 20. To Senator Daniel Patrick Moynihan, Washington, D.C. In full: "Thank you for writing to describe how the Medal of Freedom was revitalized during the Kennedy Administration - it's a fascinating story. I am proud to bestow this high honor on several exemplary citizens each year. It was altogether fitting to have you in attendance at Senator Dole's ceremony and I enjoyed our brief chat. I will keep in mind your thoughts about the original intent of announcing 'the list' once each year on July 4th." On January 17, 1997, a month earlier, President CLINTON presented BOB DOLE with the Presidential Medal of Freedom for Dole's service in World War II and Congress. Clinton had defeated Dole in the 1996 presidential election and would be inaugurated for his second term three days after the ceremony. Dole was clearly touched by the award, but nevertheless he began his remarks with: "I, Robert J. Dole, do solemnly swear…" as laughter erupted in the room. "Sorry, wrong speech," Dole said. "But I had a dream that I would be here this week, receiving something from the president, but I thought it would be the front door key." Turning serious, Dole said no one can claim to be equal to the nation's highest civilian award, "but I will cherish it as long as I live." Three years later, President Clinton presented the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Senator Moynihan. When Senator Moynihan retired, he was succeeded by Hillary Clinton. DIRECTLY FROM THE SALE OF THE ESTATE OF DANIEL PATRICK MOYNIHAN. Moynihan (1927-2003) represented New York in the U.S. Senate as a Democrat for four terms (1977-2001). A prolific author, he served in the administrations of four Presidents: Kennedy, Johnson, Nixon and Ford. Estate inventory numbers in ink (upper right) and ink stamp (left margin). Lightly creased. Fine condition.