 1945, U.S. President Truman signed an order creating the Medal of Freedom. And on this date in 1957, Althea Gibson won the Wimbledon women's singles tennis title. She was the first black athlete to win the event. George W. Bush, 78 years old today, the 43rd president of the United States. Della Reese, 1931, gospel singer and actress who played the role of Supervisor Tess on Touched by an Angel.