Tag #Us-Vatican Relations

How did the California wildfires impact the awarding of the medal, and what does this say about Biden's priorities?

This action highlights the significant diplomatic relationship between the US and the Vatican. Biden's decision to confer the award via phone call, while unusual, reflects the urgency of the California wildfire situation and underscores the importance he places on both international relations and domestic crises. The limited number of times this specific distinction has been awarded (only once by Biden and once by Obama) emphasizes its rarity and prestige.