    [Public Papers of the Presidents of the United States: William J. Clinton (1995, Book I)]
    [April 21, 1995]
    [Page 567]
    [From the U.S. Government Publishing Office www.gpo.gov]

    Statement Announcing the Award of the Presidential Medal of Freedom to
    Gaylord Nelson
    April 21, 1995

        I am pleased to announce my intention to award the Presidential
    Medal of Freedom to former Senator Gaylord Nelson, who as State
    Legislator, Governor, and Senator championed the protection of our
    natural resources. As we commemorate the 25th anniversary of Earth Day,
    his creation, it is fitting that we honor this great American's lifetime
    of public service.
        In establishing Earth Day, Gaylord Nelson helped us to recognize
    that our fragile environment was increasingly at peril and that each of
    us could make a difference. His work has inspired all Americans to take
    responsibility for the planet's well-being and for our children's
    future.
        I look forward to presenting the Medal to Senator Nelson.

                                                          William J. Clinton

    The White House,

    April 21, 1995.

    Note: An original was not available for verification of the content of
    this statement.