The U.S. Department of Defense recognized Fortis utility Tucson Electric Power (TEP) for their exceptional support of National Guard and Reserve employees during a ceremony at the Pentagon on August 22.

TEP was awarded the 2024 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award, the highest recognition given to employers by the Department of Defense.

“Tucson Electric Power appreciates the service of our veterans and active personnel in the Guard and Reserves,” said Susan Gray, TEP’s President and CEO. “We know their support in defense of the nation comes at a sacrifice to them and to their families. Here in Tucson, we will continue to do our part in supporting their contributions to the country.”

TEP was one of 15 companies honoured with this prestigious award. Since its inception in 1996, the Freedom Award has been given to just 355 companies. Award recipients are selected for their outstanding support of National Guard and Reserve employees. TEP was chosen from a pool of 1,758 nominations submitted by service members or their families.

Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III congratulated the 2024 award recipients. “We appreciate everything they do for our National Guardsmen, our Reservists, and their families,” Austin said. “Employer support is just as important today as it was over 50 years ago when our nation transitioned to an All-Volunteer force. Without the unfaltering support of employers like this year’s recipients, the men and women of the National Guard and Reserve would not be able to fulfill their vital mission in support of our nation’s defense and security. It is a great honour for me to recognize these employers.”

Brian Flores, a TEP Automation Engineering intern who serves in the United States Marine Corps Reserve, nominated TEP for the award. He joined TEP leaders and David Hutchens, President and CEO of Fortis Inc. and a former nuclear submarine officer in the U.S. Navy, at the award ceremony.