LEBANON, Tenn. - During a formal ceremony held at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, D.C., Lochinvar Corp. and 14 other employers were presented with the 2008 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. The Freedom Award is the highest recognition given by the United States government to employers for their outstanding support of employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve.

Lochinvar was nominated to receive the award by William M. Jacobs, a manufacturing engineering manager at Lochinvar and a platoon sergeant for R Troop 4/278 Air Calvary Regiment Tennessee Army National Guard. In his nomination letter to the Department of Defense, Jacobs expressed his gratitude for Lochinvar’s generosity and support that touched him, his unit and task force as well as many others in the United States military.

Bill Vallett Jr., president of Lochinvar, attended the ceremony and accepted the award on behalf of the company.

“Receiving the Freedom Award is a tremendous honor, and all of us at Lochinvar pledge to continue to support our troops to the best of our ability,” stated Vallett. “I could not be more proud of our employees and their family members who serve in the United States military, as well as those on our team who help make a difference - this award is for them.”

Most recently, Lochinvar organized a holiday collection for two employees’ children who are serving in Iraq to share with each of their units. A total of 11 boxes full of holiday gifts and decorations were shipped to Lance Corporal Michael Bain (United States Marine Corps), who is the son of Lochinvar shipping clerk Melissa Vaught, and Second Lieutenant Stephanie Kivell (United States Army), daughter of customer service representative Ann Kivell.

The shipment included a large assortment of DVDs, books, magazines and board games, as well as stationery to help the troops keep in touch with family and friends throughout the holidays. In addition to various toiletries, Lochinvar employees also donated canned food items, snacks, and homemade cookies and candy. To help spread holiday cheer, stuffed animals were sent for distribution to children, along with a Christmas tree and holiday decorations that each unit can use to deck their halls.

In addition to the Freedom Award, Lochinvar has also been presented with the Patriot Award, the Concord Minute Man trophy for Outstanding Support of the Unit and the Men and Women of Army National Guard and the “Above and Beyond” Award.

Lochinvar is a leading manufacturer of high-efficiency water heaters, boilers, pool heaters, and storage tanks. The company is based in Lebanon, Tenn., with facilities in Detroit; Orlando, Tampa, and Pompano Beach, Fla.; and Dallas. For more information, visit www.lochinvar.com.

Publication date: 12/08/2008