France Awards Fred Ryan, Chairman of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute, Legion of Honor.

Ryan awarded France’s highest national distinction in recognition of his dedication to the longstanding ties between the United States and France                   

Simi Valley, California – Fred Ryan, Chairman of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute (RRPFI), was named a Knight of the French Legion of Honor today in recognition of his contributions to the longstanding partnership between the United States and France.

French Ambassador to the United States Laurent Bili presented Ryan with the insignia of Knight of the Legion of Honor during a ceremony at the French ambassador’s residence in Washington, D.C.

In bestowing the distinction, the French government recognized Ryan’s “invaluable contributions to the longstanding partnership between the United States and France,” as well as his dedication to the cultural, economic and political ties that unite the two countries. The honor also recognizes Ryan’s leadership throughout his career, including his current role as Chairman of RRPFI and his previous leadership at The Washington Post, POLITICO and Allbritton Communications.

“I am deeply honored to receive the Legion of Honor and grateful to the French government for this extraordinary recognition,” Ryan said. “The friendship between the United States and France is one of our nation’s oldest and most enduring, built on shared values and a common commitment to liberty. Throughout my career, it has been a privilege to work in support of the enduring bonds between our two countries, and I accept this honor with profound appreciation.”

“The Légion d’honneur recognizes not only professional achievement but a lifetime of service and commitment, in your case, service to your country, to democratic institutions, to the free press… to the friendship between France and the United States.” Ambassador Bili said.

Established by Napoleon Bonaparte in 1802, the Legion of Honor is France’s highest national order. It recognizes distinguished service to France and the ideals it represents. Foreign nationals may receive the distinction for their service to France or for supporting causes championed by France.

Ryan has served as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute since 1999. He previously served as Publisher and CEO of The Washington Post, Co-Founder and CEO of POLITICO, and President and Chief Operating Officer of Allbritton Communications.

Ryan also served in the White House during the Reagan Administration, ultimately serving as Assistant to the President, one of the highest levels of staff appointment. When President Ronald Reagan left office in 1989, Ryan served as his Chief of Staff and oversaw the establishment and operation of President Reagan’s post-presidential office in Los Angeles.

About the Reagan Foundation & Institute

The Ronald Reagan Presidential Foundation and Institute (RRPFI) is the sole nonprofit organization created by President Reagan charged with advancing his legacy and principles – individual liberty, economic opportunity, freedom and democracy, peace through strength, and national pride. 

A globally recognized nonpartisan organization based in Simi Valley, CA, with a leading policy institute in Washington, DC, RRPFI delivers impactful public affairs programming, policy convenings and projects of national and international significance, scholarly initiatives, and distinctive educational programs shaping the perspectives of middle, high school, and college students. 

In addition, RRPFI sustains the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum, the largest and most visited presidential library. A leading cultural institution, RRPFI houses a remarkable 125,000 square foot museum with unique historical pieces that tell the story of Ronald Reagan’s life, presidency, and enduring impact, and hosts world-class special exhibitions. 

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