Sen. Lieberman accepts the 2011 American Patriot Award as (left to right) Albert Zimmerman, Vice Admiral Anne Rondeau, CIA Director David Petraeus, Sen. John McCain, General Raymond Odierno, and General Dempsey listen.

WASHINGTON, D.C. – Nearly 500 guests gathered at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, D.C. on Thursday, Nov. 3, as Connecticut’s Senator Joseph Lieberman received the prestigious 2011 American Patriot Award.  Senator John McCain of Arizona also received the award, which was presented by the National Defense University Foundation (NDUF).
Lieberman and McCain were recognized for their outstanding record of contributions to America’s national security, armed forces and veterans throughout their impressive careers in government.  U.S. Army Chief of Staff General Raymond Odierno and Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) Director David Petraeus gave personal tributes to the honorees.

Sen. John McCain and Sen. Joe Lieberman congratulate one another.

Also attending the event was Congressman John Larson (D-Conn.)
“As true patriots, both Senators Lieberman and McCain are most deserving of the National Defense University Foundation’s American Patriot Award because of their inspirational leadership and selfless dedication in serving our nation’s ideals, values and democratic principles,” said Albert C. Zimmerman, chairman of the Board of Directors, National Defense University Foundation.
Past recipients of the American Patriot Award include former President George H.W. Bush, General Colin Powell, Dr. Henry Kissinger, former Secretary of Defense Robert M. Gates; General Petraeus and Senator John Glenn.