Editor's Note: The Congressional Wrestling Caucus is a group of members of Congress who were wrestlers and/or have a strong interest and involvement in the sport. This group meets together, and has been part of a number of Washington, D.C.-based wrestling activities. This letter was sent to President Trump recently:

Dear President Trump,

On behalf of the Congressional Wrestling Caucus, I request your consideration to recognize Mr. Dan Gable with the Presidential Medal of Freedom, our nation’s highest honor. As you know, Coach Gable is widely considered the greatest wrestler of all time. Following a 181-1 high school and collegiate career at Iowa State, he won the 1972 Olympic Gold Medal without surrendering a single point. He defined greatness as an athlete and coach and continues to do so today as an ambassador for the sport of wrestling.

To date, no wrestler has received the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Your selection of Coach Gable would cement his stature and cap his career in a way no one else in the sport has previously achieved. Our entire wrestling community, young and old, athlete and fans, would embrace his recognition across our great nation.

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a significant impact on the sport of wrestling. This year’s NCAA Division I Championships were canceled days before the event. Many seniors will never compete again in front of their teammates, coaches, families, and friends. Recognizing Coach Gable during this challenging time would embrace his recognition across our great nation.

I am proud to support Coach Gable being recognized with the Presidential Medal of Freedom. Thank you for your consideration of Coach Gable and all you have done to advance the sport of wrestling.

Sincerely,

Markwayne Mullin
Member of Congress

Jim Jordan
Member of Congress

Ted Yoho
Member of Congress

Steve King
Member of Congress

Dave Loebsack
Member of Congress