Today's Date:

The Lafayette Award was created in 2007 by the French American Cultural Foundation, in Washington, D.C., to honor those who contribute, in their personal actions, to the development of friendship between the United States and France. Every year, members of the French American Cultural Foundation choose a laureate who embodies the values of Marquis de Lafayette in his relationship with the American people and with General Washington: generosity, confidence and elegance.

The first Lafayette Award recipient was Dr. James H. Billington, Librarian of Congress, thus rewarded for his efforts in promoting cultural exchanges between France and the United States. His love for France, as well as his profound understanding of the French language and history, made him an enlightened actor in the promotion of Franco-American relations throug his contribution to the dialog between the two nations.

The award ceremony took place March 13, 2007 at the residence of the Ambassador of France to the United States, Jean-David Levitte, and was attended by the President of the French American Cultural Foundation, Mr. Leonard L. Silverstein and many other guests. Introduced by the renowned author David McCullough, the first laureate received an original manuscript signed by Marquis de Lafayette.

Links: Presentation of the Lafayette Award to Dr. James H. Billington