We’ve known Michael Dorman was a notable man since we wrote about him last year.

Now, it turns out the president of the United States agrees with us.

Former Coast Guardsman and founder of Military Missions in Action, Dorman traveled to the White House on February 15 to receive a 2012 Presidential Citizens Medal from Barack Obama.

“It was an incredible experience and very humbling for myself, Military Missions In Action and some of our supports like Craig Hagood CEO of House Autry Mills,” Dorman said. “To think MMIA was being recognized by the president of the United States and I was being presented the Presidential Citizens Medal in the East Room, which is the same room President Lincoln laid in state, was something I never would have dreamed.”

The second-highest award a civilian can receive, the medal is given to a select few honorees each year, chosen by the president for their outstanding service to their community and country.

Dorman was selected for his work with MMIA, assisting veterans and current service members with living independently and overcoming obstacles.

The president received nearly 6,000 nominations this year. Eighteen medals were awarded, six of which were posthumously given to the adults who lost their lives in the Sandy Hook Elementary School shootings.

Since news of his recognition went public, Dorman says interest in MMIA has increased. “Currently our list of projects has grown to 24 veterans waiting for our assistance. MMIA needs the support of all Americans to meet the need of our service men and women. We need your gifts, your time and your talents,” he said.

MMIA has also recently introduced an additional program. The Military Child Access Assistance Program assists military children with special needs by providing ramps and rails in their homes so they can live a more independent lifestyle.

“On behalf of a grateful nation, thanks to all of you for showing us what it means to be a citizen of this country that we love. Hopefully, we will all draw inspiration from this and remember why it is that we’re lucky to be living in the greatest nation on Earth,” President Obama concluded after presenting the awards.

Call (919) 552-1603 or visit militarymissionsinaction.org to learn more about Military Missions in Action.