HI HR285

Commends the State of Hawaii for winning the 2010 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award, one of 15 national recipients recognized on September 22 in Washington, D.C.

Recognizes Hawaii's support of National Guard and Reserve employees, including service credit toward retirement for activated personnel and preferential hiring for Guard and Reserve members and their spouses.

Highlights Hawaii as the first state to award a Medal of Honor to fallen service members who were born, raised, educated in Hawaii or served in a Hawaii-based unit.

Notes Hawaii's ceremonial support including farewell ceremonies at Aloha Stadium for the 29th Brigade deployments and welcome home parades on Waikiki Beach upon their return.

Encourages other Hawaii employers of National Guardsmen and Reservists to similarly support their citizen warriors and their families.