Soldier and Veteran Recognition Programs Continue

To recognize Army Guardsmen and their supporters during operations Noble Eagle, Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, the Freedom Salute program is now in its fourth year. The campaign began in December 2003 and has recognized more than 100,000 soldiers, family members, friends, employers and others for their contributions since the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001.

Soldiers recognized for the program receive an encased American Flag, a commemorative coin, a certificate of appreciation, and a lapel insignia. Spouses recognized receive a lapel insignia and children and other supporters can receive different commendation items.

A companion program called Freedom Team Salute allows any American to commend unlimited U.S. Army veterans for their service to the country. This program, which began in May 2005, honors veterans with a certificate of appreciation and a personalized letter from the secretary of the Army and Army chief of staff.

Those interested in the Freedom Salute Program should visit Virtual Armory. Information on Freedom Team Salute is available here.