WASHINGTON, D.C. – Today, U.S. Sens. Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Rob Portman (R-OH) announced Senate passage of legislation that would award the Congressional Gold Medal to Jack Nicklaus. In May 2014, the U.S. House of Representatives passed the legislation by unanimous consent. The legislation now heads to the President’s desk for final signature.

“This is a fitting tribute for a man who has given so much to his community and country,” Brown said. “Known across the world for his records on the golf course, it’s his hometown Ohio roots that ground Jack Nicklaus’ lasting legacy.  Named by Sports Illustrated and ESPN as one of the greatest living athletes, the Golden Bear will now receive Congress’ greatest honor. I applaud Jack and his wife Barbara for all they have done and continue to do to improve the lives of others and I congratulate him on this honor.”

“I am proud that this son of Ohio will be honored with a Congressional Gold Medal for his extraordinary life and achievements,” Portman said. “Jack Nicklaus is a legend, and without a doubt the greatest golfer of all time. Yet in addition to the Golden Bear’s career in golf, he is a dedicated philanthropist who has made a difference in communities across America. Together with his wife Barbara, Jack has positively impacted the lives of thousands of children and their families through the Nicklaus Children’s Health Care Foundation, and other initiatives.”

“I had the fortunate pleasure in 2012 to attend and participate in Arnold's Congressional Gold Medal ceremony, and I witnessed how special and meaningful it was to him,” Nicklaus said. “I am honored and humbled to have the opportunity to experience that, as well, and to be a part of a very special group of past recipients. The game of golf has been an incredible gift to my family and me. It not only gave me a livelihood, but it provided Barbara and me with a vehicle to give back and to impact other lives, especially those of children and families in need. To our leaders in both the House and the Senate who supported this extremely kind gesture, I offer my most sincere and heartfelt appreciation. God bless America.”

Nicklaus was born in Upper Arlington and founded the Memorial Tournament, which is a PGA Tour golf tournament played on a Nicklaus-designed course at Muirfield Village Golf Club in Dublin, Ohio.

Since 1776, a diverse group of individuals has been honored with the Congressional Gold Medal, including Sir Winston Churchill, Bob Hope, George Washington, Robert Frost, Joe Louis, and Mother Teresa of Calcutta. Congressional Gold Medals have also been awarded to Neil A. Armstrong, the first human to walk on the Moon; Edwin E. "Buzz" Aldrin, Jr.; Michael Collins; and John Herschel Glenn, Jr.

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