Chapter 228: President's Medal of Freedom

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Washington, D.C.

The White House.

President George W. Bush solemnly addressed the camera: "Just three days ago, an extremely tragic event occurred. The entire city of New York went through a terrible nightmare."

"Seventy thousand African Americans from the impoverished neighborhoods organized a protest march for Timothy Thomas, who died in the Cincinnati shooting incident."

"However, the march, which was meant to honor the innocent victim, eventually escalated into a riot, leading to more deaths and greater destruction."

"In just one night, a large number of robberies, assaults, arson, and murders occurred in the chaos, with property damage estimated to exceed 230 million dollars."

"Following the riots, the New York National Guard and the U.S. Marine Corps were ordered to assist the local police in quelling the unrest."

"153 people lost their lives in the riot, and over 3,000 were injured."

"My prayers and condolences go out to the victims of this tragedy."

"But in the midst of this chaos, something uplifting did happen."

"Martin Myers, our 14-year-old American genius, risked his life to protect his three friends by infiltrating the Manhattan Second Bank, which was held hostage by four armed robbers. He killed two of the robbers and captured the other two."

"He not only rescued his three friends but also protected the Manhattan Second Bank from any losses."

"Martin Myers' actions became a beacon of light in the darkness."

He paused, as though thinking carefully about his next words, and then continued: "I am glad to see young men like Martin Myers standing up and doing the right thing, without fear of danger. At just 14 years old, he represents the future and hope of America…"

"To honor Martin's brave actions, I am proud to announce that the federal government will award him the Presidential Medal of Freedom!"

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is the highest civilian honor in the United States, awarded annually by the President. Along with the Congressional Gold Medal, it is one of the most prestigious civilian awards in the country.

"Wow, Martin must be the youngest recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom in U.S. history. He truly is an outstanding individual!"

The taxi driver of Anne Hathaway, who was listening to the radio, couldn't help but remark.

"I really wish my son could become someone like him. He is the true role model of America, not those shameless politicians or Hollywood stars."

Anne Hathaway was about to remind the driver that Martin was also a Hollywood star, but she held back. In her mind, Martin was different—he wasn't like those flashy, shallow celebrities in Hollywood.

The taxi stopped at the hotel where the "Spider-Man" crew was staying.

Anne Hathaway got out of the car and entered the hotel, took the elevator up, and headed directly to the café on the 17th floor.

Martin was already waiting there for her.

Seeing that Martin was alone, Anne felt relieved.

Truthfully, she didn't really want to meet Scarlett Johansson and Lindsay Lohan. The former had taken her role, and she had taken the latter's, so meeting them would have been awkward.

"Over here!"

Martin waved when he saw Anne.

"Martin, long time no see."

"Long time no see, Miss Hathaway."

"No, call me Anne."

After greeting each other, Anne sat down.

"Would you like something to drink?"

"A latte, please!"

"Waiter, one latte for this lady," Martin called the waiter over and then looked at Anne Hathaway.

"Anne, is there something you'd like to talk to me about today?"

Anne smiled. "Not much. I just wanted to thank you again for helping me land the role in The Princess Diaries. Also, I'd like to invite you to the premiere of The Princess Diaries in August. Will you come?"

"What date in August?"

"August 3rd."

Martin thought for a moment and confirmed that he didn't have any other plans on that day. He smiled and said, "Okay, I'll be there."

Anne Hathaway beamed with joy.

The two began chatting casually.

"Martin, on the way here in the taxi, I heard on the radio that the White House is preparing to award you the Presidential Medal of Freedom. That's the highest honor an ordinary person can receive, right? You're incredible. I guess you'll be the first actor in Hollywood to receive such an honor, won't you?"

Anne was both impressed and envious.

Martin shook his head. "That's not true. Before me, two other Hollywood actors received this honor—Audrey Hepburn and Sidney Poitier."

"Speaking of Audrey Hepburn, has anyone ever told you that you resemble her?"

Martin's comment made Anne Hathaway feel a bit proud. She ran her fingers through her hair and casually responded, "Hey, people have been saying that since I was little. Honestly, I don't mind. Really! I'd rather people know my name as Anne Hathaway than as 'the one who looks like Audrey Hepburn.'"

"You will. After meeting you last time, I checked out the script for The Princess Diaries. I think this movie will be a big hit, if you trust my judgment!"

"Really?" Anne Hathaway's eyes widened. "Of course, I trust you. Your judgment is well-known in Hollywood."

...

In Los Angeles, in a luxurious villa.

George Clooney sat sipping whiskey while watching President Bush's speech on TV.

"The Presidential Medal of Freedom, huh? That's pretty much the highest honor a civilian can receive…"

Honestly, he felt a bit envious. If only he could get one, it would align perfectly with his current plans to boost his political image.

Similarly, in a modest house in Malibu, Los Angeles.

Angelina Jolie lay on the couch, staring blankly at the TV.

"Martin… the Presidential Medal of Freedom…"

Just last year, after her breakout role in Lara Croft: Tomb Raider, Angelina was preparing to follow her agent's advice to pursue a charitable image.

After her rise to fame, her past misdeeds had been brought up by the press—everything from stealing her mother's boyfriend to drug use, fights, bullying… Honestly, even she was shocked when she saw it all.

To clear her name, her agent had devised a "charitable saint" persona for her.

She was now aiming for a position as a "Goodwill Ambassador for the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees." If successful, her past would no longer matter.

Her agent said, "In America, who can, or even dares, to slander a 'saint' with boundless love?"

She thought the plan was great at the time.

But after seeing Martin about to receive such an honor, she suddenly realized her "charitable saint" path didn't look as appealing anymore.

It's all about comparison…