n the 16 years since his release from prison, disgraced junk-bond king Michael Milken has beaten prostate cancer, raised hundreds of millions of dollars for medical research and reshaped an image tarnished by a 1990 conviction for securities fraud.

One thing he’s been unable to do is win a presidential pardon, despite the support of some of the country’s most influential people. Before he left office Jan. 20, President Bush declined to grant Milken’s pardon application, just as President Clinton had eight years earlier.

One of those disappointed by Bush’s decision was outgoing Food and Drug Administration Commissioner Andrew von Eschenbach, who said Milken’s philanthropy had transformed medical research, raised awareness of prostate cancer and saved lives.

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