Hot Springs, Arkansas – The Arkansas Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that Jack and Sue Bridges, owners of The Arkansas Alligator Farm and Petting Zoo were honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of its employee who serves in the Arkansas National Guard.

According to Richard Green, ESGR Program Support 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.  Jack and Sue Bridges were nominated for being highly supportive of the National Guard Service by their Reserve Component Employee, Sergeant Stacy McBay, a member of the Arkansas Army National Guard, who is preparing to deploy to Afghanistan. Sergeant McBay is the manager and alligator handler for the farm. His wife Beth also works with the farm.  Supportive supervisors are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s National Guard and Reserve units.”

Mr. Bridges stated, "it is tough having Stacy gone especially since he is our manager and handles and feeds the 200 alligators at the farm. You just don't find replacements for someone lake Stacy. I understand the importance of his National Guard duty. I was a long time member of the National Guard myself."                          '.

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.