New York, NY (April 7, 2014) – The Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum will honor Chuck Hagel, U.S. Secretary of Defense, and Jeffrey R. Immelt, Chairman and CEO of GE, at the 23rd Annual Salute to Freedom Awards to be held on Thursday, May 22 at the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum, located at Pier 86 (46th Street and 12th Avenue), Manhattan. Cocktails begin at 6 PM and the dinner and awards program runs from 7 to 10 PM.

Secretary Hagel will be honored with the 2014 Intrepid Freedom Award for his distinguished service promoting and defending the values of freedom and democracy as Secretary of Defense, United States Senator and his decorated service in the United States Army.

Mr. Immelt will receive the 2014 Intrepid Salute Award in honor of his outstanding business and philanthropic achievements that include investments in defense technology, global education programs and employing veterans.

"These honors are reserved for those Americans who have made contributions to our nation – of service, of sacrifice and of patriotism, and of technological achievements, research, and inspiration – that make our lives better and advance our position in the world," said Susan Marenoff-Zausner, President of the Intrepid Sea, Air & Space Museum. "Whether through defense, commerce or scientific advancement and education, Secretary Hagel and Mr. Immelt have each spent a lifetime working to advance our nation’s position in the world, and one which we are proud to recognize."