It was an emotional moment for Vice President Joe Biden, receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom with Distinction. It is the highest civilian honor. Biden had no idea he was receiving the award, he said he thought he was coming to toast senior staff. Biden is the fourth person to receive this award.

President Barack Obama stated,  “For your faith in your fellow Americans, for your love of country and for your lifetime of service that will endure through the generations, I’d like to ask the military aide to join us on stage,” Obama said in the ceremony, “For my final time as President, I am pleased to award our nation’s highest civilian honor, the Presidential Medal of Freedom.”

Joe Biden replied saying, “This honor is not only well beyond what I deserve, but it’s a reflection of the extent and generosity of your spirit,” Biden said. “I don’t deserve this but I know it came from the President’s heart.”

The award is given to fellow Americans for their excellence and achievement.