Selected 2013 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award Recipient

Kingsport, Tenn.,- – Eastman Chemical Company (NYSE:EMN) has received the 2013 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. This is the U.S. Department of Defense’s highest recognition given to employers for exceptional support of employees serving in the National Guard and Reserve. Eastman will receive the award from the Secretary of Defense at an awards ceremony in Washington, D.C. on September 26, 2013.

“While I value everyone who volunteers service to others, there is a special place in my heart for those who serve in our military,” said Jim Rogers, Chairman and CEO. “How we treat our veterans speaks to who we are as a company, and this recognition is a tremendous affirmation of how exceptional our Eastman culture is, and something every one of us can take pride in.”

A review board comprised of military and civilian leaders selected 30 finalists from almost 3,000 nominations, and a national selection board of senior Department of Defense officials, business leaders and prior awardees selected 15 winning employers in three categories: large business, small business and the public sector.

Freedom Award finalists distinguish themselves by implementing both formal policies and informal initiatives that go above and beyond in assisting and encouraging National Guard and Reserve service. Eastman provides full pay during annual training or emergency call-ups and 100% differential pay and continued health and dental insurance coverage to employees and families during active duty. The reservist also continues to receive cash bonus awards and 401k contributions while deployed.

In addition, the company provides an additional week of paid leave to military employees returning from deployment to allow them more time at home with their families. Eastman hosts going away and welcome-home ceremonies, posts updates in company communications about military employees, and presents an eagle casting award that recognizes the service of National Guard and Reserve Service members. The Kingsport site has a military honor wall in its employee center that includes a large screen interactive touch display that presents reservists’ stories of experiences while serving. Eastman employees volunteer to perform yard maintenance and routine home repairs for deployed employees, to help ease their families’ added workload.

“I commend and thank the 15 recipients of the 2013 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award for providing exceptional support to our Citizen Warriors,” said Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel. "So many of our Nation’s employers are finding ways to contribute to our Nation’s security, but these employers stand out for their commitment to our Guardsmen and Reservists. They have the gratitude and thanks of the entire Department of Defense.”

About ESGR and the Freedom Award:
The Freedom Award was instituted in 1996 under the auspices of ESGR to recognize exceptional support from the employer community. In the years since, 175 employers have been honored with the award. ESGR develops and maintains employer support for Guard and Reserve service. ESGR advocates relevant initiatives, recognizes outstanding support, increases awareness of applicable laws, and resolves conflict between service members and employers. Paramount to ESGR’s mission is encouraging employment of Guardsmen and Reservists who bring integrity, global perspective and proven leadership to the civilian workforce. For more information, visit www.freedomaward.mil.

About Eastman
Eastman is a global specialty chemical company that produces a broad range of products found in items people use every day. With a portfolio of specialty businesses, Eastman works with customers to deliver innovative products and solutions while maintaining a commitment to safety and sustainability. Its market-driven approaches take advantage of world-class technology platforms and leading positions in attractive end-markets such as transportation, building and construction, and consumables. Eastman focuses on creating consistent, superior value for all stakeholders. As a globally diverse company, Eastman serves customers in approximately 100 countries and had 2012 pro forma combined revenues, giving effect to the Solutia acquisition, of approximately $9.1 billion. The company is headquartered in Kingsport, Tennessee, USA and employs approximately 13,500 people around the world. For more information, visit www.eastman.com.​