The National Association of Broadcasters Wednesday gave a shout out to talk radio host Rush Limbaugh, who has died of lung cancer.

“Rush Limbaugh was a trailblazer on broadcast radio who brought a vast listenership to radio in general and to the AM band in particular," said NAB president Gordon Smith. "NAB extends condolences to his family, friends and the millions of listeners who will miss his unique presence on radio.”

That unique view included constant attacks on liberals, who were incensed by his rhetoric and worldview.

Limbaugh was arguably the central figure in the rise of conservative talk radio following the elimination of the FCC's fairness doctrine requirement that broadcasters seek out opposing viewpoints on issues of public importance.

That rise culminated in his receiving the Presidential Medal of Freedom from President Donald Trump after Limbaugh's diagnosis with stage 4 cancer.

Limbaugh attempted the transition to TV, but his medium was ultimately the personal reach of radio.

President Donald Trump gave talk radio host Rush Limbaugh the Presidential Medal of Freedom during the State of the Union Address Tuesday.

Established by President John Kennedy, the medal is the nation's highest civilian honor

Limbaugh was a guest of the President and First Lady at the speech, and was clearly surprised and pleased by the honor.  

"Rush Limbaugh is a legendary radio host with millions of loving fans," the White House said of the award. "His radio show has been on the air for more than three decades and has had an incalculable effect on American politics and government. Limbaugh is a champion of the Constitution, advocate of civic engagement, and a committed patriot."   

Limbaugh announced this week that he is suffering from late-stage lung cancer. 

Past winners of the award include Martin Luther King, Jr., Steven Spielberg, Muhammad Ali, Mother Teresa, Rosa Parks, Fred Rogers, and Billy Graham.