Smyrna, DE – The Delaware Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (DE ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced that Grotto Pizza owner, Dominick Pulieri signed a Statement of Support for the National Guard and Reserve on Tuesday, January 12, 2010.  The signing ceremony occurred at the corporate headquarters for Grotto Pizza in Rehoboth Beach, DE.  Grotto’s employs over 25 employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve.
The Statement of Support confirms that the State of Delaware joins other employers in pledging that:
• We fully recognize, honor and enforce the Uniformed Services Employment and Re-Employment Rights Act (USERRA). 
• Our managers and supervisors will have the tools they need to effectively manage those employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve.
• We will continually recognize and support our country’s service members and their families in peace, in crises and in war.

After pledging the support, Mr. Dominick Pulieri commented, “I have always been sensitive to the commitments and sacrifices that the men and women of our military make every day.  They are ready at a moments notice to leave their families to protect our freedom.  Our support of the military at Grotto Pizza is a very small payback for all that they do for our country.”

According to Christine Kubik, DE ESGR Executive Director, “Today, supportive employers are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s National Guard and Reserve units.  We ask that all Delaware employers review their current human resources policies to ensure compliance with the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA).  Mr. Pulieri and Grotto Pizza joins thousands of America’s employers in demonstrating support for our armed forces.  By signing the Statement of Support, Mr. Pulieri is sending a clear message to the employees of Grotto Pizza that, while they are serving their country, they do not have to worry about their civilian jobs.”

About Grotto Pizza
Grotto may mean “cave” in Italy, but in Delaware it means pizza – lots of pizza! Grotto Pizza was founded in Rehoboth Beach, Delaware in 1960.  They bring the “legendary taste” to 18 locations in Delaware currently, including their newest location at the Dover Air Force Base.  Grotto Pizza continues to adhere to its philosophy of quality food and friendly hospitality that has made Grotto Pizza a family tradition for nearly a half of a century!

About ESGR
Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) is a Department of Defense agency with a mission to gain and maintain employer support for Guard and Reserve service by recognizing outstanding support, increasing awareness of the law, and resolving conflict through mediation. ESGR volunteers provide free education, consultation, and if necessary mediation for civilian employers of Guard and Reserve employees.  More information about ESGR Employer Outreach and Education Programs is available by calling Christine Kubik, Executive Director of the Delaware ESGR Committee, at (302) 326-7582.