(FARGO, ND) The Honorable Thomas F. Hall, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs, attended employer recognition events in Wahpeton and Fargo on April 22. Secretary Hall is responsible for the overall supervision of reserve component affairs of the Department of Defense.

The North Dakota Committee of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) presented "Above and Beyond" Awards to 5 employers in the Wahpeton area during an Employer Recognition Breakfast. An additional 25 employers received the award during an Employer Recognition Luncheon in Fargo. The Above and Beyond Award honors employers who exceed the requirements of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act. Examples of above and beyond support from employers of reserve component members include continuation of benefits, providing pay differential, and assisting with childcare.

The Pro Patria Award was also presented to MeritCare during the Fargo event. This award recognizes the most exceptional support of national defense through leadership practices and personnel policies that support their employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve. The Pro Patria Award is the highest award that an ESGR State Committee may bestow upon employers within their purview.

The Seven Seals Award was presented to staff members at the Fargo Moorhead Chamber of Commerce in recognition of significant individual support to promote and support the ESGR mission in the F-M area.