C.W. Driver Receives 2013 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award

PASADENA, Calif. — C.W. Driver has recently been recognized by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve as one of the 15 recipients of the 2013 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. The Freedom Award is the highest recognition given to employers for exceptional support of guard and reserve employees. These employers distinguished themselves among the 2,899 nominations received from guardsmen and reservists.

C.W. Driver was nominated by an employee and member of the Navy Reserve, who cited the company's efforts in sending letters and care packages to deployed employees, hosting send-off and welcome home parties and support to spouses and families in a service member's absence.

“This prestigious award is an incredible honor for C.W. Driver — especially since our employees nominated us for this award,” said Dana Roberts, president/CEO of C.W. Driver.   “We are proud to have these dedicated service members as part of our team and we thank them for their service to our country and for their hard work here at C.W. Driver.”

C.W. Driver also partners with the Department of Defense employment program, Hero 2 Hired, to encourage area employers to hire National Guard and Reserve Service members. Additionally, the small business stays in contact with deployed employees, even arranging for an employee serving overseas to lead the Pledge of Allegiance for a company meeting via Skype.

“I commend and thank the 15 recipients of the 2013 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award for providing exceptional support to our citizen warriors,” said Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel. “So many of our nation's employers are finding ways to contribute to our nation's security, but these employers stand out for their commitment to our guardsmen and reservists. They have the gratitude and thanks of the entire Department of Defense.”

Since 1996, only 175 employers have received the Freedom Award. Previous awardees have met with the president and vice president of the United States and the secretary of defense and chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff.

All recipients will be honored at the 18th annual Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award ceremony in Washington, D.C. on Sept. 26.

 
Photo caption: C.W. Driver – Dana Roberts, president/CEO; Chrstopher Myers, project manager; Andy Kirby, senior project manager and John Thornton, executive vice president