U.S. President George Bush added his tribute to those given to President Ezra Taft Benson at the prophet's 90th birthday commemoration.

In his videotaped message, Bush said: "Ezra Taft Benson, happy birthday! When I told my wifeT Barbara you were celebrating your 90th birthday, she smiled, shook her head, and said, `George, and I thought your birthday cake looked like a bonfire!'"But we're not here to count candles or the years. We'd rather marvel at all that you've accomplished. From your early days as an Idaho farm boy when you drove a horse and wagon at age 4, your life has been one marked by achievement after achievement.

"From your distinguished service as Secretary of Agriculture in the Eisenhower Administration through your long involvement with the Boy Scouts, your leadership and hard work have helped so many.

"But I especially applaud your worldwide contributions to the Church of Latter-day Saints. Since 1921, when you first served as a young missionary in the British Isles through your calling as a member of the Quorum of the Twelve Apostles in 1943, and finally, as president of the Church in 1985, your service has been the very model of selfless devotion and compassion. No matter how difficult the task, no matter how distant the problem, you've always been willing to extend a helping hand to those in trouble.

"But Mr. Secretary, this is more than a birthday greeting. I am pleased to honor you with the Presidential Citizens Medal in recognition of your exemplary service to your country and fellow citizens.

"But most of all it is your devotion to freedom, your love of the U.S. Constitution, and your commitment to your wonderful partner, Flora, who's been by your side now for almost 63 splendid years, that makes you a special American indeed. Your integrity, experience, and understanding heart remind me of what Oliver Wendell Holmes once said: `Call him not old who bears eternal summer in his soul.'

"Those candles may be crowded atop your birthday cake today, but in your heart lies a young and vibrant spirit that is a model to all of us. Barbara joins me in wishing you a very happy birthday. God bless you and your wonderful family on this, your very special day."

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Pres. Benson awarded medal

President Ezra Taft Benson is to receive the Presidential Citizens Medal, it was announced July 28.

U.S. President George Bush referred to the award in his videotaped tribute to President Benson, shown at the prophet's 90th Birthday Commemoration July 30.

In the medal citation, President Benson, former Secretary of Agriculture to President Dwight D. Eisenhower, was called "one of the most distinguished Americans of his time."

The medal is given to people who have performed exemplary deeds of service for their country or to their fellow citizens.

At the birthday commemoration, President Gordon B. Hinckley, first counselor in the First Presidency, announced, "We understand that President Bush will send someone to personally bestow this award on President Benson some time in the near future."