Morrilton, Arkansas – The Arkansas Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that Chief of Police, Norbert Gunderman of the Morrilton Police Department was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of its employees who serve in the Arkansas National Guard and Reserve.

According to Richard Green ESGR Arkansas Program Specialist, “The Patriot Award was created by ESGR to publicly recognize individuals who provide outstanding patriotic support and cooperation to their employees, who like the citizen warriors before them, have answered their nation’s call to serve. Chief Gunderman was nominated by Army Specialist James Coffman, who serves in the Arkansas Army National Guard and is also a member of the Morrilton Police Force, for being highly supportive of the National Guard. Chief Gunderman also has a second member of the Police Force serving in the National Guard.  Supportive supervisors are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s National Guard and Reserve units.”

Chief Gunderman also signed a Department of Defense Statement of Support pledging continued support to Guard and Reserve Employees. The Morrilton Police Department joins thousands of companies, state and federal agencies and employers across America in support of the National Guard and Reserve.

As the 1.3 million members of the National Guard and Reserve continue to perform an increasing number of unique missions with America’s borders and beyond, ESGR will continue to be the resource for the employers of citizen warriors. ESGR recognizes outstanding support, increases awareness of the law, and resolves conflict through mediation.  More information about ESGR Employer Outreach Programs and volunteer opportunities is available at www.esgr.mil, or by calling Richard Green at 501-212-4096.