Hagel Thanks Recipients of Employer Support Freedom Awards Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel thanks audience members and recipients of the Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award during a ceremony at the Pentagon, Sept. 26, 2014. Fifteen private- and public-sector employers from across the country were recognized for exceptional support of their employees who serve the nation in the National Guard and Reserve. It is the highest recognition that the Defense Department bestows to employers for such support. SHARE: Download: Full Size (0.08 MB) Credit: VIRIN: 654470-X-JRF94-071.jpg Photo Gallery