Alaska's own Clarence Alexander will be the recipient of this year's Presidential Citizens Medal, the nation's second-highest civilian honor. "This year's recipients of the Citizens Medal come from different backgrounds, but they share a commitment to a cause greater than themselves," President Obama said in a release. "They exemplify the best of what it means to be an American, and I am honored to be able to offer them a small token of our appreciation."
Alexander, who is 72 years old, is among 13 who will receive the medal. In May, the President called on members of the public to nominate people in their lives who have performed "exemplary deeds of service" in their communities. The Alaskan community spoke.
Here's how the release describes Alexander:
Alexander is also a co-founder of the Yukon River Inter-Tribal Watershed Council, and the founder of Gwandak radio, KZPA 900 am, which broadcasts from Fort Yukon.
In a statement, U.S. Senator Lisa Murkowski said the following about the award: "I am proud that one of our very own Alaskans is the recipient of such a prestigious award. It reminds me of the famous Margaret Mead quote -- Never underestimate the power of a small group of committed people to change the world. In fact, it is the only thing that ever has. Congratulations Clarence on your achievement."