Town of Gilbert wins 2011 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award!

Gilbert Watch salutes the Town of Gilbert! Gilbert was the only municipality among 15 recipients nationwide to receive The Freedom Award. This is the Department of Defense’s highest recognition given to employers for exceptional support of their employees serving in the Guard and Reserve.

Gilbert was chosen among 4,049 nominations by Guard and Reserve service members or their families.

Gilbert provides paid military leave for employees who must be away from their jobs for annual training, and supplemental paid leave for employees who are ordered to active duty. Eligible employees on active military duty and their dependents may continue health insurance through the town for up to 24 months.

Those who serve our country in the name of freedom and our American heritage, and their families, deserve our heartfelt appreciation.

Also, through Gilbert’s Operation Welcome Home program, initiated by Council Member Jenn Daniels, service men and women returning home to Gilbert from active duty are honored. Many organizations join the Town and lend their support to our returning veterans.

If you haven’t attended one of these Operation Welcome Home programs, please do. Bring your children. They will love the motorcycle motorcade that surrounds the car carrying the soldier and family to the front entrance of the Municipal Center. They will appreciate the Honor Guard provided by American Legion Post 39. They will get a kick out of the “HOORAH’S!” that are heard throughout the ceremony. It is truly a memorable experience.

For more information, read “Gilbert’s Support of Military Well Deserving of Recognition,” Tribune, 5/22/2011. Also, “Department of Defense Announces Recipients of 2011 Freedom Award.” 5/31/2011. http://www.freedomaward.mil/TemplateDetailsView.aspx?TemplateID=658