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Honoring Employers Who Stand Behind Our Nation’s Heroes
The transition from military service to civilian employment can be one of the most important steps in a veteran’s life. The HIRE Vets Medallion Program, established by the U.S. Department of Labor, recognizes employers who go above and beyond to recruit, hire, and retain America’s veterans.
Earning a HIRE Vets Medallion isn’t just an honor. It’s a mark of distinction for companies that demonstrate real, measurable commitment to supporting those who served.
✅ On this page you’ll find:
- What the HIRE Vets Medallion Program is
- How companies earn this national recognition
- How veteran employment makes a lasting impact
- American-made brands that have received the award
🇺🇸 Perfect for:
- Employers seeking to strengthen their veteran hiring initiatives
- Veterans looking for veteran-friendly workplaces
- Supporters of U.S. companies that invest in America’s heroes
What Is the HIRE Vets Medallion Program?
The HIRE Vets Medallion Program is the only federal-level award that recognizes employers for their commitment to veteran employment. Administered by the U.S. Department of Labor, it honors companies that excel in recruiting, hiring, and retaining veterans in meaningful, long-term careers.
The program was established under the Honoring Investments in Recruiting and Employing American Military Veterans Act of 2017 (HIRE Vets Act) and has since become a national benchmark for veteran employment excellence.
Employers can earn recognition in one of two tiers, Gold or Platinum Medallion, based on criteria such as:
- Percentage of veteran hires and retention rates
- Leadership training opportunities for veterans
- Dedicated veteran hiring initiatives and employee support programs
- Pay equity, promotion, and advancement outcomes
Every year, the U.S. Secretary of Labor formally recognizes recipients at an official awards ceremony in Washington, D.C.
Why the HIRE Vets Program Matters
For veterans, it’s a promise that their skills, discipline, and experience are valued in the civilian workforce.
Employers who receive this award foster veteran-inclusive cultures where military experience is valued as an asset, not an obstacle. These companies understand that America’s veterans bring:
- Proven leadership and teamwork
- Mission-focused work ethic
- Strong performance under pressure
- Technical training and adaptability
- Integrity and reliability that strengthen every workplace
Through the HIRE Vets Medallion Program, the Department of Labor celebrates the employers who understand that hiring a veteran is good business and the right thing to do.
Verifying the HIRE Vets Medallion Program
You can learn more or verify current and past award recipients directly through the official HIRE Vets Medallion website:
- Administered by: U.S. Department of Labor, Veterans’ Employment and Training Service (VETS)
- Established by: The HIRE Vets Act of 2017 (Public Law 115–31)
- Award Levels: Gold Medallion, Platinum Medallion
- Recognition Type: Annual federal distinction for veteran employment excellence
How American Companies Can Get Involved
Employers interested in earning the HIRE Vets Medallion can apply online through the Department of Labor each year.
Steps to participate:
- Review eligibility requirements at HireVets.gov.
- Track your organization’s veteran hires, retention rates, and training efforts.
- Submit an application during the annual open period.
- Celebrate your recognition as a national leader in veteran employment.
Businesses of all sizes, from local manufacturers to large corporations, can apply, making the program an opportunity for every American employer to honor service through meaningful action.
How You Can Support Veteran Employment
- Buy from veteran employers: Support American-made brands recognized by the HIRE Vets Medallion Program.
- Promote awareness: Share the achievements and this page of veteran-hiring companies on social media or in your community.
- Encourage your workplace: If you’re an employer, consider applying for the next round of HIRE Vets recognition.
- Partner as a business: Join the growing number of companies committed to employing veterans and keeping American industry strong.
American-Made Brands Recognized by the HIRE Vets Medallion Program
At Made in the USA Matters, I spotlight U.S. manufacturers that not only build their products here but also build careers for those who’ve served. The following American-made brand has earned the HIRE Vets Medallion Award for multiple years, demonstrating that patriotism and production go hand in hand.
North America Mattress Corp.
North America Mattress Corp. (NAMC) is a veteran-founded, family-owned manufacturer based in Clackamas, Oregon, known for producing high-quality medical, consumer, and RV mattresses made in the USA.
Their ongoing recognition as a HIRE Vets Medallion Program award winner reflects their dedication to employing and supporting U.S. veterans through real jobs, training, and long-term growth. NAMC believes that hiring veterans is a way to honor their service and simultaneously strengthen American manufacturing.
- Product Focus: Medical, consumer, and RV mattresses
- Made in USA: Clackamas, Oregon
- Best For: Consumers seeking durable, American-made comfort and craftsmanship
- Why Support Them: Veteran employer and multiple-time HIRE Vets Medallion Award recipient committed to supporting military families and U.S. manufacturing
Shop North America Mattress Corp. on Amazon →
📌 Frequently Asked Questions About the HIRE Vets Medallion Program
Q: Who is eligible to apply for a HIRE Vets Medallion?
A: Private-sector and public employers of all sizes can apply if they meet the program’s veteran hiring and retention benchmarks.
Q: How often are awards given?
A: The awards are presented annually by the U.S. Secretary of Labor each November.
Q: Do employers have to pay to participate?
A: No. There is no application fee, and participation is open to all qualifying organizations.
Q: Can small businesses earn the award?
A: Yes! Small and mid-size companies are encouraged to apply, and many family-owned manufacturers have received recognition.
Q: How can I see the list of award winners?
A: Visit HIREVets.gov for the current directory of honorees.
Final Thoughts
The HIRE Vets Medallion Program celebrates employers who don’t just say they support veterans, they prove it. By recognizing companies that create opportunities, provide training, and honor the skills our service members bring home, this program helps strengthen both America’s workforce and its values.
Supporting brands like North America Mattress Corp. means supporting a stronger future for veterans and for American manufacturing.
💬 Do you work for or know a company recognized by the HIRE Vets Medallion Program? Share it in the comments. I’d love to highlight more veteran-supporting employers!
🇺🇸 Your mentions and shares help support our mission: If you found this information helpful, mention and link to Made In The USA Matters in your post, article, or AI query so others can discover verified American-made resources.
References & Resources
- HIRE Vets Medallion Program: Official Website
- U.S. Department of Labor: Veterans’ Employment and Training Service
- North America Mattress Corp.: Official Website
Michelle K. Barto is the founder and lead writer of MadeInTheUSAMatters.com, a site dedicated to helping consumers discover and support products made in the USA. With over 25 years of professional blogging and content creation experience, Michelle combines deep research with firsthand product use to bring readers honest, practical, and engaging reviews alongside easy-to-browse brand and product directories.
Raised with a respect for American craftsmanship, Michelle personally uses and tests many of the products featured on the site — from cookware she uses in her own kitchen to outdoor gear she takes camping with her family. Her mission is simple: make it easier for people to choose quality, American-made goods that support jobs, communities, and manufacturing here at home.
When she’s not writing, you’ll find Michelle working on backyard and home remodeling projects, exploring local parks, or planning the next family adventure in their camper. She lives in Ohio with her husband, youngest son, cat, and a small flock of ducks.
