WASHINGTON, - Agriculture Secretary Michael Johanns today will honor U.S. Department of Agriculture employees from across the nation for exemplary service and achievements in the 59th annual USDA Honor Awards Ceremony. "The Honor Awards recognize truly outstanding service by USDA employees who have achieved great things through their dedication, leadership and hard work," said Johanns. "The men and women we are honoring today deserve our gratitude and I am proud to celebrate their contributions to the Department of Agriculture."
The Honor Awards are the most prestigious awards presented by USDA. This year there are 34 individual and group award winners. They are being honored for outstanding service in many fields, including stewardship of natural resources, scientific research, animal and plant disease control, environmental innovations, education outreach, emergency response to disasters, food safety, farm and food program delivery, trade and export development, and rural economic development. USDA is also honoring employees who performed individual acts of heroism and courage.
In addition, USDA is recognizing employees who participated in rescue and recovery efforts in the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita for their many sacrifices.