Photograph and Note Commemorating President Reagan Awarding Dr. Maurice Hilleman the National Medal of Science

An official White House commemorative photograph and note from the White House. The photograph documents President Ronald Reagan awarding the National Medal of Science to Dr. Maurice Hilleman in 1988. The commemorative photograph bears an inscription on the front: "To Maurice Hilleman / Congratulations and best wishes" and the signature "Ronald Reagan". The back of the photograph bears a stamp: "Official Photograph / The White House / Washington / 15 JU 88 C483821". The commemorative note is dated August 4, 1988, and reads: "Dear Dr. Hilleman, I am pleased to send you a memento from the President of your receiving the National Medal of Science. It was a pleasure to participate with you on this outstanding occasion. Sincerely, William R. Graham / Science Advisor to the President". The note bears the signature "Bill Graham". All pieces are contained in an envelope, addressed to "Dr. Maurice R. Hilleman / Director / Merck Institute for Therapeutic Research / Merck and Company, Inc. / West Point, Pennsylvania 19486" with a return address of "The White House / Washington". The image in photograph 2017.3081.09 is only slightly different to that in 2017.3081.10, perhaps taken moments apart.

Currently not on view