On Wednesday, June 23, 2004, President Hinckley was awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom — the nation's highest civil honor — by President Bush in a special ceremony at the White House. There were a dozen recipents of this prestigious award for 2004. The White House announcement cited President Hinckley's 46 years of service as a General Authority or President of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. "In those capacities, he has inspired millions and has led efforts to improve humanitarian aid, disaster relief and education funding across the globe," the announcement said. The day of the ceremony was also President Hinckley's 94th birthday.

Watch excerpts from the ceremony online: