(Auburn Hills, MI) – Richard Snider, Chair of the Michigan Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Committee (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced that Mr. Bob Nardelli, CEO Chrysler LLC, signed a Statement of Support for the National Guard and Reserve on Monday, May 5, 2008. The signing ceremony took place at Chrysler LLC Headquarters in Auburn Hills, Michigan and was attended by more than 500 Chrysler employees.    

The Statement of Support confirms that Chrysler LLC joins other employers in pledging that:  

• We fully recognize, honor and enforce the Uniformed Services Employment and Re-Employment Rights Act (USERRA). 
• Our managers and supervisors will have the tools they need to effectively manage those employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve.
• We will continually recognize and support our country’s service members and their families in peace, in crises and in war.
  

When asked about the criteria, Snider said “By meeting the Statement of Support criteria, Chrysler LLC stands proudly with its Guard and Reserve employees, who continue to answer their nation’s call to defend our way of life.  Their personal sacrifices are essential to the strength of our nation”. 

The Honorable Thomas F. Hall, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs presented the Pro Patria Award to Chrysler LLC during the event. “The award represents going above and beyond what is required by law," said Secretary Thomas Hall. "This is singularly one of the most impressive events I have ever attended.” The Pro Patria Award is the highest award that an ESGR field Committee may bestow upon employers within their purview. 

The Chrysler Foundation announced $50,000 donations to Operation Gratitude, which sends care packages overseas, and the Michigan National Guard. After the ceremony, Chrysler volunteers assembled 500 care packages to be shipped to Michigan troops overseas.  

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) is a Department of Defense agency established in 1972. The mission of ESGR is to gain and maintain employer support for Guard and Reserve service by recognizing outstanding support, increasing awareness of the law, and resolving conflicts through informal mediation. ESGR volunteers provide free education, consultation, and if necessary mediation for employers of Guard and Reserve employees. 

As the 1.3 million members of the National Guard and Reserve continue to perform an increasing number of unique missions that require extraordinary actions on the part of everyday citizens, ESGR will continue to be the informational agency for the employers of citizen warriors. More information about ESGR Employer Outreach Programs and volunteer opportunities is available at www.esgr.mil. 

For more information on ESGR, please contact Beth Sherman at 703-380-9717.