By Ali Carey, Contributing Writer

Who says Washington can’t get anything done?

Senators Bob Casey and Pat Toomey along with Rep. G.T. Thompson (R-Centre) nominated Joe Paterno for the Presidential Medal of Freedom for his contributions to collegiate athletics, higher education and American society.  According to the White House, the Presidential Medal of Freedom is “the nation’s highest civilian honor, presented to individuals who have made especially meritorious contributions to the security or national interests of the US, to world peace, or to cultural or other significant public or private endeavors.”

Casey, Toomey and Thompson praised Paterno for his contributions to Penn State athletics in their nomination letter addressed to President Obama.

“Coach Paterno’s accomplishments on the football field are nothing short of legendary. During his 45-year tenure at Penn State, he has amassed 402 career wins – more than any other coach in Division I history,” the members wrote in a letter to President Obama. “He has coached five undefeated teams, two national championship teams, won three Big Ten conference championships, and been named ‘Coach Of The Year’ five times by the American Football Coaches Association.”

“Coach Paterno over the years has shown tremendous character and loyalty.  Throughout his time at Penn State, he has remained committed to reaching goals without sacrificing the ideals that are central to higher education.  His contributions to college athletics and higher education, as well as the content of his character, make Coach Joe Paterno deserving of the Presidential Medal of Freedom.”

Previous Presidential Medal of Freedom recipients range from human rights advocates to choreographic geniuses, including Martin Luther King, Jr., Mother Teresa, George Balanchine, John F. Kennedy, Sandra Day O’Connor and Audrey Hepburn.  

Paterno could be next on the list.   

Not exactly a risky move for any elected official.