Yesterday (Sept. 16), President Trump awarded Mariano Rivera, the retired New York Yankees Hall of Fame closing pitcher, the Presidential Medal of Freedom. As the two made their way to the podium in a crowded press room at the White House, Metallica's "Enter Sandman" was heard in the background.

Throughout his career, the lights-out Rivera, who was nicknamed "Sandman" during his playing years, took the mound as "Enter Sandman" blared throughout Major League Baseball stadiums, even though he was never a particular fan of the band. He more recently stated that his convictions as a Christian man keep him away from listening to heavy metal in any form.

Prior to walking in the room, orchestral music played before an announcement was made welcoming the 45th President of the United States. The audio cut to legendary Yankees ballpark announcer Bob Sheppard's pre-recorded spoken-word introduction of Rivera, "Number 42, Mariano Rivera, number 42."

The opening moments of "Enter Sandman" then began, inviting Trump and Rivera to enter the room together. Taking the podium, the President addressed the crowd, beginning, "Thank you very much everybody — The Sandman. My wife asked me, 'Why The Sandman? Just tell me...' Our First Lady — I said, 'Because he put the batter to sleep, right?' The Sandman. A lot of people don't know that but the Yankee fans know that. We watched it for a long time. Thank you all for coming."

Watch the clip below.

The Presidential Medal of Freedom is awarded to contributors to the nation's security and interests, world peace and significant cultural impact.

Meanwhile, Metallica's impact is being felt around the globe as they continue to tour behind 2016's Hardwired... To Self-Destruct. See dates and get tickets here.

President Trump and Mariano Rivera Walk Out to Metallica's "Enter Sandman"