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(Washington, DC) Mr. Robert Newman, Chairman of the Washington, DC Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Committee, an agency of the Department of Defense, announced that Mr. Adam Calli, Human Resources Director of Atlantic Video, signed a Statement of Support for the National Guard and Reserve on August 7, 2008.     

The Statement of Support confirms that Atlantic Video joins thousands of America’s employers in pledging: 

• 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.

“Today, supportive employers are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s National Guard and Reserve units.  I am asking all District of Columbia employers to review and amend their current human resources policies to ensure compliance with the Uniformed Services Employment and Re-Employment Rights Act Law (USERRA),” said Robert Newman. “Many District of Columbia employers provide ‘Above and Beyond’ support with pay differential to offset the loss of wages, and extension of health care benefits, which complement coverage provided by the military, when their employees are mobilized.”

When asked about the criteria, Newman said “By meeting the Statement of Support criteria, Atlantic Video will stand 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”.

“As a former reservist myself (US Navy Reserve 1989 – 1995), I remember the support and flexibility my employers gave me. I’m glad we can lend support to the mission of the ESGR and when needed be able to give the same flexibility and support to those who wear the uniform today,” said Adam Calli.

“Mr. Adam Calli joins a cadre of Fortune 500 companies, state and federal agencies and thousands of America’s employers in demonstrating support for our armed forces,” added Newman.  “By signing the Statement of Support, Mr, Calli is sending a clear message to the employees of Atlantic Video that while they are serving their country they do not have to worry about their civilian jobs.”

Established in 1983, Atlantic Video (AV) is located at the Washington Television Center in Washington, D.C., where they employ a creative and technical team of nearly 100 professionals supported by a 20 million dollar, 53,000 square foot custom designed facility in the pursuit of broadcast, video production, and post production excellence. AV routinely produces shows such as ESPN's "Around the Horn" and "Pardon the Interruption." They have worked with National Geographic and Discovery, in addition to handling corporate projects for companies like Price Waterhouse Coopers and CSC.

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 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, or by calling Arsenia Edwards, Program Support Specialist of the District of Columbia ESGR Committee, at 202-685-8823.

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