A special ceremony was held in Cardiff where eight Welsh employers were awarded the prestigious Defence Employer Recognition Scheme (ERS) Gold Award. This recognition program was established to encourage companies and organizations that demonstrate active support for military personnel, reservists, cadets, and their families, and that promote their employment and career development. The ERS Gold Award is the highest category within the scheme and is presented to organizations that not only adhere to the Armed Forces Covenant principles but also serve as an example to other employers in supporting the military community. Receiving such an award underscores companies' commitment to creating favorable conditions for employees who combine civilian work with military service or reserve duty. The ceremony in Cardiff provided an opportunity to recognize the contribution of these organizations to strengthening ties between the armed forces and civil society. Such events traditionally emphasize the importance of partnership between business and the defense sector, and also help promote programs supporting veterans and active-duty personnel in the workplace throughout the United Kingdom.