The Arizona Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that Chuck Artigue, General Manager with Sandusky Radio, Phoenix was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of its employee who serves in the United States Army Reserve.

Mr. Chuck Artigue (first on the right), General Manager for Sandusky Radio, Phoenix, Arizona receives his ESGR Patriot award from his military employee (second from the right) SPC Margherita Mazzurco, 6253rd United States Army Hospital, USAR, one week prior to shipping to Basic Training.  Also assisting in the presentation, Mr. Scott Essex, Arizona ESGR State Chairman (first on the left).  Immediately after this presentation, SPC Mazzurco conducted a radio interview with Mr Essex and Mr. Wise regarding ESGR.

SPC Mazzurco states, when I first decided to enlist in the US Army Reserves I did so with an open mind.
My greatest obstacle or worry was how my employer would react. I was unsure how this news would be received, would my job still be here for me when I returned from training. On or around August 9, I received a phone call from my recruiter with a confirmed reservation date to leave for basic Training on October 19th. The day I received the phone call I spoke with my General Manager, Chuck Artigue. I explained to him that I had a made a decision and I hope that he as well as the company would support me in my decision. I was overwhelmed with the response I received. A big smile fell upon Chuck's face and then he said "Darlin' I am so proud of you, you go and do what You need to do, and your job will be waiting for you when you get back." WOW!!! I was unsure of what response I would receive. There is always fear of losing your employment especially with the way the economy is right now. I am now able to rest assured that my job will be here for me. I am overwhelmed with the amount of support that I am receiving from the entire staff from our cluster of radio stations here in Phoenix. They are sad to see me leave, but know I will be back. My station manager at KDKB, Bob Weaver, along with the staff have all been extremely supportive of my decision and I will do my best to make them proud. They have all divided up my job responsibilities amongst themselves to cover for me during my absence. The last thing I would like to mention is that my employee handbook it has provisions for leave of Absence for Military Duty. I am fortunate and proud to work for a company who supports the military of the United States.
 
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 Butch Wise at 602-629-4031 or email at lawrence.wise@us.army.mil