Story time: The best of Arnold Palmer

• By Golf Channel Digital
• Sep 10, 2012 10:00 AM ET

Arnold Palmer turns 83 Monday. On Wednesday, he will receive the Congressional Gold Medal, which is the highest civilian award given in the United States. It is awarded to people "who have performed an achievement that has an impact on American history and culture that is likely to be recognized as a major achievement in the recipient's field long after the achievement."

President George Washington, in 1776, was the first to receive the honor. Byron Nelson is the only other professional golfer to receive it, doing so posthumously in 2006.

Palmer’s professional career includes 62 PGA Tour victories and seven major championship titles. But it is him impact in other arenas – children, charity, television and fans – that allowed him to transcend his sport.

GolfChannel.com looks back on some of our memorable Palmer stories over the years, both on and off the course. Also, check out our photo gallery of Palmer's career.

Palmer's hospitals, the King's crowning achievement: Arnold Palmer has that smile. The kind that makes you reply in same.  Never is it more genuine than when he’s around kids, particularly around those who could really use a smile. ... Read more

Fans get personal with Palmer:  Arnold Palmer never asked to be The King. It was a designation cast upon him, and a crown he has always worn with reluctance. The common touch, however, was instilled within him. And something he has always carried well and willingly. ... Read more

Palmer ushers in golf's TV era:  Like most of us, Frank Chirkinian’s first impression of Arnold Palmer came through the television set. The long-time CBS producer, who brought so many innovations to televised golf, could not invent what he saw in the TV truck in his first Masters’ telecast 50 years ago. ... Read more

Palmer relives 1958 Masters, Part I: Fifty years ago. That’s what Palmer is being asked to recall on this fine day. The first week in April, 1958, to be exact, back when he won his first of four green jackets. ... Read more

Palmer relives 1958 Masters, Part II: In 1958, Arnold Palmer was on the cusp of stardom. The kind that transcends the sport in which the athlete participates. He needed that signature victory. ... Read more

My Arnold Palmer story:  Everyone has an Arnold Palmer story. Everyone. I asked them. They told me. This is mine. ... Read more