King County was honored at a ceremony in Washington D.C. with a 2023 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award in recognition of its support of National Guard and Reserve members. Only 15 recipients were selected for the award, which is the highest recognition given by the U.S. government to small and large private and public sector employers for their exceptional support of employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve.

On hand to receive the award were King County Executive Dow Constantine, Chief People Officer Whitney Abrams, Metro Transit Operator Christopher Cappelletti (pictured right), Petty Officer II in the U.S. Coast Guard Reserves who nominated King County for the award, Metro Transit Chief Lisa Dove, and Susan Navetski, Project/Program Manager III with the Department of Human Resources, a military veteran who oversees King County’s Vets 4 Hire program.

“King County is deeply honored by this award,” said King County Executive Dow Constantine in a news release announcing the award. “Military personnel bring an unmistakable can-do attitude, proven effectiveness working in diverse environments, and a rock-solid sense of duty and service, which is exactly what we want at King County. We are committed to supporting our Guard and Reserve employees and their families, and we are stronger for their contributions – as an employer and a community.” Read more.