Tony Blair To Be Honored by President Bush

If there's one thing about President Bush, he's loyal to those who have been loyal to him:

Tony Blair will be presented with one of America’s highest civilian honours by President Bush for his unfaltering support for the United States in the fight against terrorism, the White House announced yesterday.

The award of the Presidential Medal of Freedom is being made on January 13, just a week before Mr Bush leaves office after eight years in which his Administration has largely been defined by terror attacks at home and two unfinished wars abroad.

Dana Perino, the White House press secretary, said that Mr Blair will receive the medal from Mr Bush along with President Uribe of Colombia, and John Howard, the former Prime Minister of Australia.

“All three leaders have been staunch allies of the United States, particularly in combating terrorism. Their efforts to bring hope and freedom to people around the globe have made their nations, America and the world community a safer and more secure world,” she added.

A spokesman for Mr Blair said that it was a “great honour”, adding: “The award of this medal reflects the true courage of the men and women of the Armed Forces who, through their service and sacrifice have helped to safeguard freedom, democracy and human rights around the globe.”

All three men have been great friends of the United States. For Blair and Howard, especially, that friendship came at a cost of tremendous criticism back home and may have even cost Howard his job.

They have been good friends of this country and are well deserving of this honor.