Photos: Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony

NBA legend Michael Jordan receives his medal.

NBA legend Michael Jordan receives his medal.

(Shawn Thew / EPA)

Nov. 22, 2016 12 AM PT

Presidential Medal of Freedom ceremony at the White House.

Tom Hanks

President Obama awards the Presidential Medal of Freedom to Academy Award winner Tom Hanks.

(Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images)

Ellen DeGeneres

Comedian and talk show host Ellen DeGeneres wipes away tears as her citation is read before being awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

(Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images)

Kareem Abdul-Jabbar

Former Lakers great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar receives his medal from the president.

(Manuel Balce Ceneta / Associated Press)

Diana Ross

Medal recipient Diana Ross with the president.

(Manuel Balce Ceneta / Associated Press)

Vin Scully

Longtime Dodgers broadcaster Vin Scully receives his honor.

(Saul Loeb / AFP / Getty Images)

Maya Lin

Obama presents architect and artist Maya Lin with her medal.

(Manuel Balce Ceneta / Associated Press)

Bill and Melinda Gates

Microsoft cofounder Bill Gates and wife Melinda Gates are honored for their philanthropic work.

(Chip Somodevilla / Getty Images)

Cicely Tyson

Actress Cicely Tyson is honored.

(Nicholas Kamm / AFP/Getty Images)

Frank Gehry

Architect Frank Gehry receives his medal.

(Andrew Harnik / Associated Press )

Robert Redford

Obama presents the medal to actor Robert Redford.

(Manuel Balce Ceneta / Associated Press )