Food Lion honored by Department of Defense

SALISBURY, N.C. The Department of Defense has awarded Food Lion with its 2010 Employer Support Freedom Award, the highest recognition given by the U.S. Government to employers for outstanding support of their employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve, the retailer reported.

Food Lion reported that it was the only grocery store chain nationwide to receive this honor out of the 15 employers selected.Steve Boos, a store manager from New Bern, N.C., nominated Food Lion.

"Food Lion is proud to support its military associates who serve as members of the Guard and Reserve to protect the freedom we enjoy everyday," said Eric Watson, Delhaize America's VP diversity and inclusion. "We recognize our employees for going beyond the call of duty serving both our country and company."

The Freedom Award will be presented to Food Lion during a formal ceremony Thursday, Sept. 23 at the Ronald Reagan Building and International Trade Center in Washington, D.C.   Food Lion president Cathy Green will accept the award on behalf of the company.