His own nation awarded him its highest civilian honor, the Medal of Freedom, in ceremonies at the White House in 1976. President Ford presented the medal, with the 250 member U.S. Montreal Olympic team in attendance. In February, 1979, he returned to the White House, where President Carter presented him with the Living Legend Award. On that occasion, the President said, "A young man who possibly didn't even realize the superb nature of his own capabilities went to the Olympics and performed in a way that I don't believe has ever been equalled since...and since this superb achievement, he has continuted in his own dedicated but modest way to inspire others to reach for greatness". In 1990, President Bush honored Jesse Owens with the Congressional Gold Medal presented to his widow, Ruth S. Owens.

Jesse Owens died on March 31, 1980 and President Carter added his voice to the tributes that poured in from around the world. "Perhaps no athlete better symbolized the human struggle against tyranny, poverty and racial bigotry. His personal triumphs as a world-class athlete and record holder were the prelude to a career devoted to helping others. His work with young athletes, as an unofficial ambassador overseas, and a spokesman for freedom are a rich legacy to his fellow Americans".

 

© 1999-2000 The Jesse Owens Foundation