Atlanta, GA – James McGarrah, Chair of the Georgia Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (GA ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced that Senator Johnny Isakson, United States Senator for Georgia, signed a Statement of Support for our men and women in uniform on January 8, 2010.  The signing ceremony was held at 3:30 p.m. at Senator Isakson’s Office, 3625 Cumberland Blvd., Atlanta, GA 30339. 

"Since the tragic terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, our nation has depended on our National Guard and Reserve forces like never before in waging the war on terror, and the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve is essential to maintaining employer support for these individuals and the sacrifice they have made for our country," said Isakson.

The Statement of Support confirms that the Offices of United States Senator Johnny Isakson 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. 

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (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 mediation. ESGR volunteers provide free education, consultation, and if necessary mediation for employers of Guard and Reserve employees.
As the 1.3 million members of the National Guard and Reserve continue to perform an increasing number of unique missions that require extraordinary actions on the part of everyday citizens, ESGR will continue to be the informational agency for the employers of citizen warriors. More information about ESGR Employer Outreach Programs and volunteer opportunities is available at www.esgr.mil, or by calling Penelope Harbour, GA ESGR Executive Director, at 678-569-5738.