Former football coach Lou Holtz smiles after receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Donald Trump, in the Oval Office of the White House, Thursday, Dec. 3, 2020, in Washington.
(AP Photo/Evan Vucci)WASHINGTON – President Donald Trump on Thursday called Lou Holtz "one of the greatest coaches in American history” as he honored the college football Hall of Famer and political ally with the nation's highest civilian honor.
“He’s really a life teacher," said Trump, noting the respect and loyalty Holtz earned from the many players he mentored.
Holtz is one of several sports figures Trump has awarded the Medal of Freedom during his time office.
“I’m even prouder to receive it from President Donald Trump," said Holtz, who added that Trump was the "greatest president in my lifetime”A graduate of Kent State, Holtz also served seven years as an officer in the U.S. Army Reserves.