(San Antonio, TX)---The Texas Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Committee, representing the National Committee for ESGR presented Senator Leticia Van de Putte with the Department of Defense Exceptional Support Award during a special ceremony held at the Sam Houston VFW Post #76 Building on June 23, 2009.

ESGR was established in 1972 to gain and maintain American employers’ support for the Guard and Reserves by increasing awareness of the law and resolving conflicts through informal mediation. ESGR volunteers provide free education, consultation, mediation and other support services.

Senator Van de Putte was honored in recognition of her extensive and tireless work in support of legislation and private sector programs to support Texans serving in the Guard and Reserves, their dependents and the thousands of Texas veterans.

Additionally, she is being recognized as Patriotic employer and community citizen for her inspirational leadership and encouragement of other public and private employers to join in supporting our Guard and Reserve members. 

“Thanks to her tireless efforts in the Texas Legislature, members of the state’s military forces have the assurance of returning to their jobs when called to state active duty in response to natural disasters, expanded benefits for military personnel and their dependents attending college, tax abatements for disabled veterans and eligibility for a number of other special state programs and services,” said Dwain James, Executive Director of Texas ESGR.

“I am honored to be recognized by Texas ESGR, as the Chair of the Veteran Affairs and Military Installations, I am committed to ensuring that our guardsmen and women receive the benefits they deserve for their hard work and service to our state and our nation,” said Senator Van de Putte.