Americans were surprised, to say the least when soon to be former president Donald Trump announced that he had invited Patriots coach Bill Belichick to accept the Presidential Medal of Freedom Award.

This prestigious award, created by John F. Kennedy in 1963 is the highest honor a civilian can obtain and is awarded by the president to “to individuals who have made exceptional contributions to the security or national interests of America, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors.”

While the award has been given to revolutionary American heroes such as Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., it has also been given to people who have made large contributions to American culture, specifically entertainment. Such people include Elvis Presley, who sold more than one billion records in his career.

Belichick definitely would not have been the first sports-related figure to receive the award. American legend Babe Ruth, who remains unmatched with a .690 slugging percentage records and led the Yankees to 7 championships and 4 world series championships, was also a recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom. 

Given his accomplishments, Belichick is certainly deserving of the award. According to ESPN, “Belichick's 311 victories (regular season and playoffs combined) are third all-time, behind Don Shula (347) and Halas (324).” He is also the first coach to win five Super Bowl rings--which eventually became 6 in Super Bowl LII--and play in seven championships. 

It was no coincidence that Trump announced his invitation to accept the award several days following the horrific events of January 6th, where angry Trump supporters gathered at the Capitol Building and broke in. Five people died including an officer, senators had to go into bunkers, and chaos was rampant.  The events that transpired on January 6th were incited by Trump himself, who told his mob of supporters “It’s not over. We keep going” and made baseless claims that the election was stolen. 

Belichick was clearly ten steps ahead of Trump. He was aware of the president’s attempt to deflect from his egregious actions. Belichick chose to be a foil to Trump. Where Trump demonstrated a complete lack of respect for our country, for our government, and for our people, Belichick demonstrated true patriotism. By declining, Belichick is refusing to enable Trump to bribe him for his support. Belichick proved that he is not only to be respected as the greatest coach in NFL history but as a true, genuine American Patriot, which makes him all the more deserving of the award.