Beckman Given Science Medal by President

For the second time this year, inventor and philanthropist Arnold O. Beckman has picked up a top honor from the White House.

On Wednesday, the 89-year-old founder of Fullerton-based Beckman Instruments was one of 19 people to receive the nation’s top science honor--the National Medal of Science.

Beckman was given the award “for his leadership in the development of analytical instrumentation and for his deep and abiding concern for the vitality of the nation’s scientific enterprise.”

President Bush awarded the medals in the East Room of the White House and took the opportunity to talk about future science projects including such controversial programs as the supercollider and space station.

“You’ve inspired generations to come, as you must, for you are in essence our true pioneers,” Bush told the Medal of Science recipients.