On the recordJuly 26, 2011
Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize three employers in Rhode Island that are honoring and supporting the brave men and women serving our great country in the armed services. These include Amica Mutual Insurance of Lincoln, Rhode Island; Banneker Industries of North Smithfield; and the Woonsocket Middle School. These Rhode Island employers have received national recognition as finalists and semifinalists for the Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award and were selected for this honor from a pool of 4,000 nominations. This award is the Department of Defense's highest recognition of employers for the extraordinary support they provide to our National Guard and Reserve members and their families. The Freedom Award is especially significant because nearly half of our Nation's military is currently comprised of Guard members and Reservists. These men and women have put their lives on the line because our country asked them to. Because of their service, we're able to enjoy the freedoms that we have here at home. We owe those serving our country, our veterans, and their families our utmost gratitude and respect for their great sacrifices on our behalf. I commend our Rhode Island businesses who recognize the sacrifices of our servicemen and -women and their families. ____________________
