President Obama to be awarded Presidential Medal of Distinction

http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/israel-to-award-president-obama-prestigious-presidential-medal-of-distinction-during-visit/2013/02/18/6df1f104-79de-11e2-9c27-fdd594ea6286_story.html

   This article reports that next month, when President Obama makes his first trip to Israel, he will be awarded the Presidential Medal of Distinction for making "a unique and significant contribution to strengthening the State of Israel and the security of its citizens."  He will be the first sitting United States president to receive this recognition, which will take place during a dinner at Israeli President Shimon Peres' private residence.
   The medal is given to individuals and organizations that have made "outstanding contributions to bettering the world."  Last year, Obama awarded Peres with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, our nation's highest civilian honor.
   Previous winners of the Presidential Medal of Distinction include former Secretary of State Dr. Henry Kissinger, the Music Director of the Israel Philharmonic Orchestra, Attorney Uri Slonim, and Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz.
   The article noted Obama's historically tense relationship with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, especially regarding Israel's policies on West Bank settlement and the lack of peace process with the Palestinians.  Despite this, he has continues to back the Jewish state, and remains friendly overall toward its leadership.
This may help pave the road toward greater understanding in future talks.