TOPEKA, Kan. (AP) — The city of Shawnee in northeast Kansas has been named one of 30 finalists for an annual award honoring employers for their support of the National Guard and Reserves.

The Department of Defense announced Wednesday that the Johnson County community is a finalist for the Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. It is the military’s highest award presented to employers who demonstrate support for their workers who are members of the National Guard or Reserves.

Shawnee was selected from more than 2,800 nominations that were submitted earlier this year by service members.

A group of senior defense officials, business leaders and previous award recipients will select up to 15 Freedom Award winners from the 30 finalists. Winners will be honored at a ceremony in September.