The Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian award, recognizes exceptional meritorious service. The medal was established by President Truman in 1945 to recognize notable service in the war. In 1963, President John F. Kennedy reintroduced it as an honor for distinguished civilian service in peacetime.
Looking for "meritorious service."
My aol dictionary defines "meritorious" as "deserving honor or esteem'.
Everyone one of these people deserve at least that for their accomplishments. They are the tops in their fields, and I think it's important the president can recognize and reward American excellence.
"Freedom" is the misnomer here.