JEFF HATFIELD & CORE CONTRACTORS NOMINATED FOR SECRETARY OF DEFENSE FREEDOM AWARD

Jeff and Jerri Hatfield have owned their own businesses since 1984 and have owned and operated Core Contractors, Inc. since 1999. As business owners, this nomination recognizes their commitment and support for members of the military.

ESGR’s awards program culminates with the Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award, the highest recognition given by the U.S. Government to employers for their outstanding support of employees serving in the Guard and Reserve. Each year, Guard and Reserve employees, or a family member acting on their behalf, have the opportunity to nominate their employer for the Employer

Support Freedom Award. The ESGR State Committees review nominations and submit recommendations to advance to the next round in each of the three categories: small employer, large employer, and public sector. A national selection board comprised of senior Department of Defense officials, business leaders, and prior awardees select up to 15 employers to receive the Secretary’s prestigious award.

Since the Freedom Award was instituted in 1996, 220 employers have been honored at annual ceremonies in Washington, DC. The ceremony is currently held at the Pentagon, with the awards being presented by either the Secretary of Defense or Deputy Secretary of Defense. As part of the annual recognition, the President also signs a proclamation for “National Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Week,” highlighting the sacrifices of our Guard and Reserve members and their families, and the outstanding support they receive from employers.