Navy Federal Credit Union Named Recipient of the 2024 Secretary of Defense Freedom Award

Navy Federal Credit Union has been recognized as one of 15 recipients of the prestigious Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Freedom Award. This award is the highest honor given by the Department of Defense to employers for their outstanding support of employees serving in the National Guard and Reserves.

Navy Federal was selected from a pool of 1,758 nominations submitted by Guard and Reserve service members or their families. The credit union was recognized for its exceptional support of employees who serve in the military, including flexible scheduling, continued benefits and pay during deployments, and a supportive work environment that recognizes the challenges that come with a career in the Guard and Reserves.

“Guard and Reserve members play a critical role in our nation’s defense and military readiness,” said Navy Federal CEO Dietrich Kuhlmann. “Ensuring our team members who have made the decision to serve their country in this way are supported is something we pride ourselves on at Navy Federal, and we’re honored to receive this prestigious award from the Department of Defense in recognition of that commitment.”

The ESGR 2024 Freedom Award was formally presented to Navy Federal Credit Union during the award’s annual ceremony at the Pentagon just outside of Washington, D.C. Kuhlmann was proud to represent the credit union as it joined a select group of employers who have been recognized for their exemplary support of military service members.

Navy Federal is continually recognized for its dedication and commitment to providing a balanced, productive and inclusive work environment. Earlier this year, the credit union has been recognized as a Top Veteran Friendly Employer for 2024 by U.S. Veteran’s Magazine, celebrated its 13th consecutive year on the FORTUNE 100 Best Companies to Work For® List while also being named to PEOPLE’s Magazine 2024 Companies That Care award.