WASHINGTON -- United States Senator Mary L. Landrieu, D-La., today congratulated Sheriff Andy Brown and the Jackson Parish Sheriff's Department in Jonesboro, Louisiana on receiving the 2009 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. The Freedom Award is the highest recognition the U.S. government gives to employers who have gone above and beyond in their support of employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve.

Sheriff Brown will have the honor of speaking at the 14th Annual Awards Ceremony being held this evening in Washington, DC.

"Sheriff Brown's positive attitude and accommodation for our Citizen Soldiers demonstrates an unwavering support that exemplifies the spirit of the Employer Support Freedom Award," Senator Landrieu said. "I offer my heartfelt thanks and congratulations to Sheriff Brown and the entire Jackson Parish Sherriff's Department. The Employer Support Freedom Award is a tremendous honor and a fitting recognition of Sheriff Brown's commitment to our troops and his service to Louisiana and our nation."

"During hurricanes Katrina and Rita, Sheriff Brown provided Department personnel and equipment to assist in recovery efforts," said Nominator Command Sergeant Major Brent Barnett. "These personnel were in addition to Guard member employees. As I was deployed forward, Sheriff Brown allowed the use of my Department issued Patrol unit to assist in convoy movements to and through devastated areas of New Orleans. Without question Sheriff Brown is truly dedicated to the support of soldiers and airmen of the National Guard and Reserve."

The Jackson Parish Sheriff's Department led by Sheriff Andy Brown was one of 15 employers selected out of more than 3,200 nominees from across the nation. The Jackson Parish Sheriff's Department currently employs seven part-time service members.