North Little Rock, Arkansas – The Arkansas Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that Brenda Lewis, Manager, Customer Service Division, Department of Veterans Affairs was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of her employee who serves in the Air Force 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.  Ms. Lewis was nominated for being highly supportive of the National Guard and Reserve by her Reserve Component employee.  Supportive supervisors are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s National Guard

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.