Sam Amico
Videos by OutKick
Legendary college football coach Lou Holtz has now been given the highest civilian honor in the United States, the Presidential Medal of Freedom.
President Trump awarded it to him on Thursday morning.
Holtz, 83, was a head coach from 1969-2004, with stops at Arkansas, Minnesota, Notre Dame and South Carolina. He led both the Razorbacks (1977) and the Fighting Irish (1988) to national championships.
Holtz was also an outspoken supporter of Trump. Holtz’s reaction to receiving the medal appeared to be that of a coach who was just handed an NCAA trophy.
“It’s the highest honor or award you could possibly receive, and I receive it with mixed emotions. First of all, I’m humbled,” Holtz told Fox News. “There are many more people far worthy than me, I can assure you.
“Nobody is more appreciative than me. So, I’m excited to have this opportunity, and at the same time, I’m excited to receive it from President Trump. The president I admire and respect. I think he did a tremendous job.”
The ceremony was held at the Oval Office in the White House. As Fox News reported, Sen. Lindsey Graham, R-S.C., and Director of National Intelligence John Ratcliffe were also present.
Go Irish!
I couldn’t stand Lou Holtz as a teenager watching him as a commentator for college football. But, I have learned that he is a prized possession of the human race. Nothing but respect for this guy and his accomplishments.
Lou is the best. I’m so happy he earned this award.
Kudos, Coach. And kudos to President Trump.
Heard Lou speak at a coaches conference in DC many years ago. He is a fabulous speaker, knowledgeable about content and funny as hell. Congratulations Coach, well deserved. Kudos to President Trump.