By Associated Press
Washington DC – This year's winners of the Presidential Medal of Freedom includes Monroeville's Harper Lee. The well-known author will be honored for outstanding contributions to American literature, including her book, "To Kill a Mockingbird."
Other recipients include Francis Collins for leading the Human Genome Project, and greatly expanding understanding of human DNA. Another honoree is Benjamin Hooks. He formerly headed the NAACP and will be honored as a pioneer of the civil rights movement.
Former U.S. Rep. Henry Hyde of Illinois also will be honored for his battles against abortion rights.
The Medal of Freedom is given to individuals who have made remarkable contributions to the security or national interests of the United States, world peace, culture, or other private or public endeavors.
The medals will be presented next Monday at the White House.