More praise where it's due? John Howard to receive US...

More praise where it's due?

John Howard to receive US Presidential Medal of Freedom

JOHN Howard will receive the US Presidential Medal of Freedom at a White House ceremony next week.

The award is the highest civilian honour bestowed by a United States president.

Mr Howard is being honoured for his role in fighting terrorism and for standing by the US as an ally during his 11 years as prime minister.

"Yes, I am honoured by it, more because of the compliment it pays to our country Australia," Mr Howard said on ABC Radio.

"It's an indication of the very close relationship between our two countries, and I'm very pleased that during the time as prime minister I was able to contribute too."

It was also testament to the "very obvious" personal warmth between himself and President George W. Bush.

Former British prime minister Tony Blair and Columbia's president Alvaro Uribe will also receive medals in the ceremony.

Mr Bush has awarded 78 of the medals during his two terms as US president.

http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,24878549-12377,00.html