Vin Scully to receive Presidential Medal of Freedom

Vin Scully, who retired last month after 67 years as voice of the Dodgers, has been selected as a recipient of the nation's highest civilian honor.

President Obama will present Scully with the Presidential Medal of Freedom at a White House ceremony Tuesday.

Scully, 88, widely considered the finest broadcaster in baseball history, was one of 21 recipients listed in a White House announcement Wednesday.

Among the other recipients: architect Frank Gehry, musician Bruce Springsteen, former NBA star Michael Jordan, Lakers and UCLA icon Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, actors Tom Hanks and Robert Redford, and humanitarians Bill and Melinda Gates.

"The Presidential Medal of Freedom is not just our nation's highest civilian honor," President Obama said in a statement, "it's a tribute to the idea that all of us, no matter where we come from, have the opportunity to change this country for the better.

"From scientists, philanthropists and public servants to activists, athletes and artists, these 21 individuals have helped push America forward, inspiring millions of people around the world along the way."

bill.shaikin@latimes.com

Twitter: @BillShaikin