Kennedy's Daughter To Accept Medal Of Freedom On His Behalf

Sen. Edward Kennedy is among 16 people scheduled to receive the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Obama.

The president will present the nation's highest civilian honor in a ceremony Wednesday.

The Massachusetts Democrat, who is battling brain cancer and whose sister Eunice Kennedy Shriver died this week, will not attend the White House ceremony. Instead, his daughter Kara will accept the honor on his behalf and his other children are expected to attend.

Some of the others to be honored are actor Sidney Poitier, civil rights icon the Rev. Joseph Lowery and tennis pro Billie Jean King.

President Truman established the Medal of Freedom in 1945 to recognize civilians for their efforts during World War II. President Kennedy reinstated the medal in 1963 to honor distinguished service.