Mercer Islander Bill Russell Awarded Medal of Freedom in White House (Video)

President Obama honored NBA Hall of Fame great—and Mercer Island resident—Bill Russell and 12 others in a Feb. 15 White House ceremony by awarding them with the 2010 Presidential Medal of Freedom, the nation's highest civilian honor.

The 15 recipients were announced Nov. 17 last year and were recognized for "especially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors," according to the White House.

Other honorees include former President George H.W. Bush, German Chancellor Angela Merkel, author and poet Maya Angelou, financier Warren Buffett, and renowned cellist Yo Yo Ma.

"This year’s Medal of Freedom recipients reveal the best of who we are and who we aspire to be," Obama said during the ceremony.

In his recognition of Russell, President Obama said his life was not only one of athletic accomplishment— in 13 seasons with the Boston Celtics, he won 11 NBA championships—but also a life of an advocate for human rights and dignity.

"Bill Russell, the man, is someone who stood up for the rights and dignity of all men," Obama said. "He marched with King; he stood by Ali. When a restaurant refused to serve the black Celtics, he refused to play in the scheduled game. He endured insults and vandalism, but he kept on focusing on making the teammates who he loved better players, and made possible the success of so many who would follow. And I hope that one day, in the streets of Boston, children will look up at a statue built not only to Bill Russell the player, but Bill Russell the man."

When the time came for Obama to present the award to the Mercer Island resident, the 6' 9" Russell rose to meet him, drawing laughter. He crouched down so Obama, a mere 6' 1", could clasp the medal around his neck.

"Basketball was a different sport before William F. Russell donned a uniform," read the announcer. "With unmatched skill he led the Boston Celtics to an unparalleled string of titles and earned the distinction of being named the National Basketball Association's Most Valuable Player five times."

"He broke down barriers on and off the court, becoming (NBA) Basketball's first African-American coach and serving as a passionate advocate for civil rights. Bill Russell can reflect with pride on helping change the culture of a sport and the course of our nation."