Mills took home gold in the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. At the time he ran the fastest 10,000 meters in Olympic history.

In the mid 1980s, Mills co-founded and now serves as spokesman for Running Strong for American Indian Youth, an organization that supports cultural programs and provides health and housing assistance for Native American communities.

President Obama said Friday's 18 medal recipients are inspirations to all Americans.

Obama says, "We host a lot of events at the White House, but I have to admit this is one of my favorites because it's a moment when as a people, we get to recognize some extraordinary men and women who've gone above and beyond for their country and for their fellow citizens."

The 18 recipients of the 2012 Citizens Medal were chosen from more than 6,000 nominees nationwide.

-Zach Nugent