The House of Representatives has voted to bestow the Congressional Gold Medal on golf great Jack Nicklaus.
The legislation now goes to the Senate for a vote. Once approved there, it will go to President Bush.
Nicklaus was cited for his golfing achievements, including a record 18 major championships, and his humanitarian work. Nicklaus heads the Nicklaus Children's Health Care Foundation and has raised more than $12 million to support pediatric health services.
The Congressional Gold Medal is awarded to prominent military leaders, public servants, athletes and artists. It was last given in 2010 to Japanese-American World War II veterans. Rep. Joe Baca, D-Calif., sponsored the bill.
Nicklaus’ golf contemporary Arnold Palmer received the award in 2009, and legendary Texas champion Byron Nelson received a gold medal posthumously in 2006.
Comments
Lonnie King
Not sure why the final approval for this award whould go to President Bush after the Senate approves it?