Program for Presidential Medal of Freedom Ceremony

This is an entertainment program for an award ceremony held on October 14, 1976, during which President Gerald R. Ford recognized dancer Martha Graham with the Presidential Medal of Freedom. The event included a dance performance in the East Room, featuring Graham's choreography. First awarded to non-military personnel in 1963 by President John F. Kennedy, the Presidential Medal of Freedom is among the highest honors that a president can bestow on a private citizen. This program is part of a personal collection belonging to former White House Executive Chef Henry Haller. As executive chef from 1966-1987, Haller oversaw the menus for many formal events at the White House.