Nominated by a systems analyst, Dollar General Corporation is the nation’s largest small-box discount retailer with more than 8,400 stores in 35 states. The company was named one of 2010’s top “Military Friendly Employers” by G.I. Jobs and a “Military Spouse-Friendly Employer” by Military.com. Employees send care packages, letters and much needed supplies to their co-workers actively serving overseas. Dollar General Corporation, a past recipient of the Above and Beyond Award and ESGR Pro Patria Award, honors all service members with a Veterans Day event and offers discounts to Veterans and their families. Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award recipient Bob Ravener, Jr., executive vice president, Dollar General, is congratulated by Vice President Joe Biden. The Freedom Award is the highest recognition given by the U.S. government to employers for their outstanding support of employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve. Ravener also met with Secretary of Defense Robert Gates earlier in the day. Photo by Lisa Nipp.