Former Secretary of State Hillary Clinton aroused a standing ovation from the crowd as she received her medal. Clinton was accompanied to the event by her husband former President Bill Clinton, daughter Chelsea Clinton and grandchildren.
Democratic philanthropist George Soros and actor-director Denzel Washington were also awarded the nation's highest civilian honour in a White House ceremony.
Actor and director Denzel Washington was awarded by nation's top honour by Joe Biden. (AP PHOTO)
"For the final time as president I have the honour of bestowing the Medal of Freedom, our nation's highest civilian honour, on a group of extraordinary, truly extraordinary people, who gave their sacred effort to shape the culture and the cause of America," Biden said in his opening remarks.
"Let me just say to each of you, thank you, thank you, thank you for all you've done to help this country," Biden said Saturday.
Four medals were awarded posthumously, including to former Attorney General and Senator Robert F Kennedy, the father of Robert F Kennedy Jr who is President-elect Donald Trump's nominee for health and human services secretary.
Biden said, "Bobby is one of my true political heroes. I love and I miss him dearly."
Biden has days left in the Presidential office and has spent the last few days issuing awards and medals to valiant military veterans, courageous law enforcement officials and exceptional Americans.
The White House said the Medal of Freedom recipients have made "exemplary contributions to the prosperity, values, or security of the United States, world peace, or other significant societal, public or private endeavours."
Philanthopists Bono, George Soros and Jose Andres were all recognised with the Medal of Freedom. (AP PHOTO)
Major philanthropists receiving the award include Spanish American chef José Andrés, whose World Central Kitchen charity has become one of the world's most recognised food relief organisations, and Bono, the front man for rock band U2 and a social justice activist.
Soros' son Alex Soros accepted the medal on his father's behalf. In an emailed statement, Soros said: "As an immigrant who found freedom and prosperity in America, I am deeply moved by this honour."
Sports and entertainment stars recognised include soccer player Lionel Messi, who did not attend the event, basketball legend and businessman Earvin "Magic" Johnson, actor Michael J Fox, who is an outspoken advocate for Parkinson's disease research and development; and William Sanford Nye, known to generations of students as "Bill Nye the Science Guy."
Other awardees include conservationist Jane Goodall, longtime Vogue Magazine editor-in-chief Anna Wintour, American fashion designer Ralph Lauren, entrepreneur and LGBTQI activist Tim Gill, and David Rubenstein, co-founder of The Carlyle Group global investment firm.
Lauren is the first fashion designer to receive the honour.
Notable Medal of Freedom recipients from the past include Dr. Martin Luther King Jr, Maya Angelou and Mother Teresa.
13°C