Sierra Vista, Arizona.  Bruce Hamilton, ESGR, presents Edeka Ricard, manager with AutoZone, with the ESGR Patriot Award.  The nominator was SGT Nathaniel Marcus, Det 1, 2220th Transportation Company, ARNG, Tucson, AZ.  Edeka comes from a military family, is married to a reservist and employs both reservists and retirees.  "She is always willing to put in the extra effort for those of us that serve" says SGT Marcus.  "She is a true Patriot".

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.  Anyone wanting additional information regarding ESGR can visit our web site at www.esgr.mil or by calling Butch Wise, Executive Director for the Arizona Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve at 602-629-4031 or by email at lawrence.wise@us.army.mil