Maumelle, Arkansas – The Arkansas Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that The City of Maumelle was honored with an “Above and Beyond” award in recognition of extraordinary support of its Citizens who serve in the Arkansas National Guard and Reserve.

According to Richard Green, Arkansas ESGR Program Specialist, “The ESGR ‘Above and Beyond’ Award was created by ESGR to publicly recognize American Employers who provide extraordinary patriotic support and cooperation to their employees, who like the citizen warriors before them, have answered their nation’s call to serve.  Supportive employers are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the Nation’s National Guard and Reserve units.”

The business's and agencies of Maumelle joins with thousands of American Employers who have reviewed and amended their current human resources policies to ensure compliance with the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA). Many employers provide “Above and Beyond” support with pay differential to offset the loss of wages, and extension of health care benefits which complement coverage provided by the military when their employees are mobilized.

Maumelle Mayor, Mayor Mike Watson accepted the award of behalf of the City. The Award was presented at the Monthly Chamber of Commerce Business Brief Luncheon by Richard Green who was the guest speaker for the program. Richard Green praised the City for its high percentage of business's and agencies that outwardly support the Guard and Reserve. He stated, "The mission of ESGR is to promote a culture in which all Americans support and value the service of their Citizens that serve in the Reserve Forces. The City of Maumelle has certainly developed such a culture".

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.

National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve
1555 Wilson Blvd., Suite 319, Arlington, VA 22209
800-336-4590  www.esgr.mil