ASHLAND, Ky. - Ashland resident Ernest M. Pitt Jr. has been named Area 4 director for the Kentucky Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), according to Bob Silverthorn, Kentucky ESGR field chair.
 
        Area 4 corresponds to the Fourth Congressional District in Kentucky.  "Ernie Pitt has had an exceptional military reserve career," said Silverthorn. "It is a great pleasure to see him accept this position, which again demonstrates his support of the important role of Guard and Reserve personnel and that of employers who support our citizen warriors. 

        "As an area director, he will assemble his own group of volunteers and assist in employer outreach, military outreach and other ESGR programs within the Fourth Congressional District," Silverthorn explained. "His business experience and leadership in civic affairs make him an exceptional selection for this position."
 
        "During my 30 years of service, I was privileged to lead every sized Army unit from platoon to brigade," said Pitt. "In January 1991, I was assigned as commander of an M1 Tank training battalion, which was mobilized
 in support of Desert Storm. I have experienced the challenges and uncertainty of mobilization. I look forward to serving our state's and nation's Guard and Reserve personnel."
 
        Pitt is a partner in the Ashland law firm of Holbrook and Pitt. He has a Juris Doctor from the University of Memphis. In addition, he is a graduate of the United States Army War College and holds a Master of Laws
 degree from the University of London. He has more than 30 years' legal experience.
 
        Pitt's military career spanned more than 30 years in both the active and reserve Army and included assignments as a brigade commander and duty on the staff of the Deputy Undersecretary of the Army for International Affairs. He retired as a colonel and his awards included the Legion of Merit, five
 awards of the Meritorious Service Medal, and Parachutist Wings.
 
        ESGR is a Department of Defense agency established in 1972. The mission of ESGR is to gain and maintain employer support for Guard and Reserve service by recognizing outstanding support, increasing awareness of the law, and resolving conflicts through informal mediation. ESGR volunteers provide free education, consultation, and, if necessary, mediation for employers of Guard and Reserve employees.
 
        More information about ESGR Employer Outreach Programs and volunteer opportunities is available at www.esgr.mil.