Player Embed Code: Download Embed Share Defense Department Officials Present Employer Support Awards Defense.gov Aug. 23, 2019 | 01:18:15 The Defense Department recognizes the 15 recipients of the 2019 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award, the highest U.S. government honor presented to employers for support of National Guard and Reserve employees, during a ceremony at the Pentagon, Aug. 23, 2019. James N. Stewart, performing the duties of under secretary of defense for personnel and readiness, provides keynote remarks.