News Wrap: Freezing winter storm front begins moving across the U.S.

William Brangham:

Millions of Americans are bracing for a winter storm that will send temperatures plunging and disrupt travel. The National Weather Service forecasts the storm will begin this evening in the Central Plains and then move east and slam into the mid-Atlantic. Heavy snow and whiteout conditions are expected in the Midwest, while freezing rain could lead to power outages across Appalachia.

New details could soon emerge about why a passenger plane crashed in South Korea, killing nearly everyone on board. Investigators said they expect to complete a transcript of the pilot's final words just before the flight crashed. The cockpit voice recorder was recovered from the wreckage, and officials hope it can provide more clues about what caused the disaster.

179 people were killed when the flight overshot the runway and crashed into a concrete wall. Only two crew members survived.

President Biden awarded the Presidential Medal of Freedom to big names in the worlds of politics, the arts, sports and philanthropy. Former secretary of State and first lady Hillary Clinton, Academy Award winner Denzel Washington and world renowned conservationist Jane Goodall were among the 19 honorees.

The President said the recipients have made remarkable contributions to the world and put decency above all else.

Joe Biden, U.S. President:

For the final time as president, I have the honor of bestowing the Medal of Freedom on our nation's highest civilian honor, on a group of extraordinary, truly extraordinary people who gave their sacred effort to shape the culture and the cause of America.

William Brangham:

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is awarded to those who have made contributions to the prosperity, values or security of the United States.

Still to come on PBS News, an investment scheme that has fleeced Americans of billions of dollars. And celebrating the work of artists with disabilities.