Country Music Hall of Famer Mel Tillis was awarded the highest honor given to artists by the U. S. Government, The National Medal of Arts.  The stuttering country performer proudly received the honor at the White House from President Obama.

According to nea.gov, The National Medal of Arts is the highest award given to artists and arts patrons by the United States Government. The National Medal of Arts is awarded by the President of the United States to individuals or groups who "...are deserving of special recognition by reason of their outstanding contributions to the excellence, growth, support and availability of the arts in the United States."

During the past 26 years, nearly 300 extraordinary patrons and artists in the fields of visual, performing, and literary arts have been honored. With this medal, the President recognizes the wealth and depth of creative expression of America's artists. Hundreds of nominations are submitted by citizens across the country for consideration by the National Council on the Arts every year.

 

 

Other Country Music Medalists include Dolly Parton, George Strait, George Jones, Johnny Cash, Eddy Arnold, Minnie Pearl , Earl Scruggs, Doc Watson, Roy Acuff, Ray Charles,  and Clint Eastwood.

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