The City of Sioux Center has been named one of 40 national finalists for the Secretary of War Employer Support Freedom Award, recognizing its support for city employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve.
The city was selected from 1,288 employers nominated across the United States. The Freedom Award is the federal government’s highest recognition of employers for supporting Guard and Reserve employees.
Recognizing Support for Military Service
The award recognizes employers that go beyond workplace requirements through supportive policies, programs, family outreach, and other investments in the well-being of military members.
“This recognition is especially meaningful as it reflects our commitment to supporting our employees who serve in the National Guard, carrying out our core values of Integrity, Count on Us, Positive Attitude, and Teamwork,” City Manager Scott Wynja said. “We’re proud to keep standing alongside with those who selflessly serve our country.”
Under Secretary of War for Personnel and Readiness Anthony Tata also emphasized the importance of employer support.
“The enduring support these employers provide for our National Guardsmen, our Reservists, and their families, many of whom are in harm’s way, is a critical component of our All-Volunteer force,” Tata said in a statement.
City Employees Serve Overseas
The city was nominated by Human Resources and Safety Manager Josh Mork, a first sergeant in the South Dakota Air National Guard’s 114th Fighter Wing.
Mork has served more than 19 years in the Air National Guard after previously serving six years in the Army National Guard. During his seven years working for Sioux Center, he deployed to Japan in 2024 and completed eight temporary duty assignments in various locations.
Two other city employees also serve in the Army National Guard. Izaak Hoey, who has served for 10 years, recently returned from a yearlong deployment to Syria. Tyler Kanaly, a 13-year Guard member, deployed to Iraq in 2025–26.
“The City of Sioux Center’s wholehearted support toward military members allows us to serve our country with confidence and peace of mind,” Mork said.
The Freedom Award is presented annually by the U.S. Secretary of War. Sioux Center’s selection recognizes the city as a finalist; award recipients have not been identified in the city’s announcement.
