Over 20 state representatives joined in a signing ceremony at the North Carolina Legislature Building. Mr. Marc Basnight, President Pro Tempore, NC Senate and Mr. Joe Hackney, Speaker, NC House of Representatives signed statement of supports demonstrating their support as well as the State's support of our service member. The ceremony was organized by Ken Oppenheim, Area Chair ESGR North Carolina, and Representative Grier Martin.
Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, or ESGR, is an agency within the Department of Defense that works to promote cooperation and understanding between Reserve component members and their civilian employers. The group and its 4,200 volunteers recognize outstanding support, increase awareness of the law concerning military leave and resolve conflict through mediation. During the meeting, Speaker Hackney is expected to sign a statement of support for the National Guard and Reserve.
Rep. Grier Martin, one of the lead members of the General Assembly's Joint Military/Veterans Caucus, is among the many reservists who work at the General Assembly.
"ESGR helps strengthen relationships between employers and their National Guard and Reserve employees," Rep. Martin said. "The General Assembly is proud to show our support for this organization."
"There are thousands of great employers in our state that support our men and women in the National Guard and Reserve. They contribute in big ways and small and they all are critical in the protection of the state and nation," Gen. Ingram said. "The NC Legislature has been one of these and this signing shows its dedication to North Carolina's citizen soldiers and airmen."
**In the picture from left to right are Bud Baker, Chairman, ESGR North Carolina, BG Karlynn O'Shaughnessy, CDR 2nd BDE 75th Div, Ft Dix, Army Reserve and state employee, Joe Hackney, Speaker, North Carolina House of Representatives, Marc Basnight, President Pro Tempore, North Carolina Senate, MG William E. Ingram, Jr, The Adjutant General, North Carolina National Guard, and St