President Barack Obama Honors Joe Biden With Surprise Medal of Freedom

Calling him "the best vice president America has ever had," President Barack Obama awarded Joe Biden the Presidential Medal of Freedom Thursday in a surprise tribute to his friend and close adviser for the last eight years.

The medal is the highest civilian honor in the United States, and Biden appeared stunned and wiped away tears.

When he took the podium, he started by jokingly telling his chief of staff "you're fired," for not hinting at the surprise.

"This honor is not only well beyond what I deserve, but it's a reflection of the extent and generosity of your spirit," Biden said.

"I don't deserve this. But I know it came from the president's heart," he said