The 76-year-old from California (pictured top) has been a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) since 1994 and served as vice-president of the organisation from 2002 to 2006.

The Olive Branch Achievement Award is given to an individual who best represents the international ideals of the Olympic Movement by working to build a peaceful and better world through sport.

Easton, who is also a USOC Board member and a former President of FITA, archery's world governing body, said he was delighted to collect the award during the 2012 US Olympic Hall of Fame induction ceremony in Chicago.

"This award from the USOC was unexpected and I appreciate the honour," said Easton.

"I have always been proud to represent the United States in my various international roles.


"I have some very good friends in the international sports community and share this honour with them."

USOC chief executive Scott Blackmun led the tributes to Easton.

"It is an honour to recognise Jim Easton with the Olive Branch Achievement Award for his contributions to the growth of Olympic and Paralympic Movements in the United States," said Blackmun.

"Jim is has been a friend to the USOC for many years and has given much in support of the aspirations of our Olympians and Paralympians.

"He is a true sportsman at heart and his love of sport shows in all that he does."

Easton was one of several to be honoured in the 2012 US Olympic Hall of Fame as he was joined by track and field athletes Gail Devers (pictured above) and Dan O'Brien, swimmers Jenny Thompson and Gary Hall Junior, softball player Lisa Fernandez, soccer star Kristine Lilly, the 2004 US Olympic softball team, track and field coach Ed Temple, veteran coach James Connolly, special contributor Ted Stevens and Paralympic track and field athlete Jean Driscoll.

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