(Hampton, VA) The Virginia Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that the Honorable Molly Joseph Ward, Mayor of Hampton, Charles “Chuck” Jordan, Jr., the Police Chief and James A. Gray, Jr., Fire Chief all signed a statement of support publicly pledging their support of the men and women who serve in the Guard and Reserve who are their employees. 

According to COL Roger Trout, Chairman of the Virginia State committee for ESGR, this impressive signing ceremony is a moving indication of the sincere support by the City Of Hampton of their employee men and women who serve in the National Guard and Reserve. On hand for the signing ceremony were a number of City employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve, City Council members Angela Leary and George Wallace, City Manager Jesse Wallace, ESGR Virginia State Chair Mr Roger Trout,  ESGR Virginia State Executive Director COL Tom Stephen . Supportive employers are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s National Guard and Reserve Forces. 

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 provides education, consultation, and if necessary mediation for employers of Guard and Reserve employees. 

More information about ESGR Employer Outreach Programs and volunteer opportunities is available at www.esgr.mil, or by calling Robert O. Holmes, Public Affairs Chair of the Virginia ESGR Committee, at 757-226-7781.