Obama's last Medals of Freedom

Basketball star Michael Jordan, actor Robert De Niro and music legend Bruce Springsteen were among the 21 people honored with the Presidential Medal of Freedom on Tuesday.

During a ceremony at the White House President Barack Obama gave out the awards -- the nation's highest civilian honor -- for his last time to a diverse group of sports stars, scientists, artists and philanthropists.

"Everybody on this stage has touched me in a very powerful personal way," Obama said. "It's useful when you think about this incredible collection of people to realize that this is what makes us the greatest nation on earth.

"Not because of what we are, not because of our differences, but because in our difference we find something common to share."

The star-studded group included actors Tom Hanks and Robert Redford, basketball great Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, cultural icon Diana Ross and comedian and talk-show host Ellen DeGeneres.

While speaking on the accomplishments of DeGeneres, Obama lauded the comedian's courage for coming out as gay.

Many of the award recipients have been outspoken against Trump or have given support to Democrats. The prestigious Presidential Medal of Freedom recognizes achievements and contributions to US national interests, security, culture, peace and philanthropy.