Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – BG (Ret) Gary Bray, State Chair of the Oklahoma Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced that Major General Myles Deering, The Adjutant General of Oklahoma, signed a Statement of Support for the National Guard and Reserve on September 9, 2011.  The signing ceremony occurred at the Oklahoma Committee Annual Planning and Awards Conference Banquet.     

The Statement of Support confirms that the Oklahoma National Guard 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.

 “Today, supportive employers are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s National Guard and Reserve units.  I am asking all Oklahoma employers to review and amend their current human resources policies to ensure compliance with the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA),” said BG (Ret) Bray. “Many Oklahoma 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.  I am very pleased that MG Deering gave us time from his hectic schedule, particularly during a difficult time. ”

When asked about the criteria, BG (Ret) Bray said “By meeting the Statement of Support criteria, the Oklahoma national Guard 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”.
Major General Deering stated that The Oklahoma National Guard is proud to be associated with ESGR and extends his thanks to the men and women of the Guard and Reserve. 

“MG Deering 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 BG (Ret) Bray.  “By signing the Statement of Support, MG Deering is sending a clear message to the employees of The Oklahoma National Guard that while they are serving their country they do not have to worry about their civilian jobs.”

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 advocating relevant initiatives, recognizing outstanding support, increasing awareness of applicable laws, and resolving conflict between employers and service members. 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 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 Guard and Reserve service members.  ESGR will advocate relevant initiatives, recognize outstanding support, increase awareness of applicable laws, and resolve conflict between employers and service members. More information about ESGR Employer Outreach Programs and volunteer opportunities is available at www.esgr.mil.
 
Pictured:  BG (Ret) Gary Bray (right), Oklahoma Committee Chair, presents Major General Myles Deering, The Adjutant General for Oklahoma, with the signed Statement of Support at Oklahoma’s Annual Planning and Awards Conference Banquet September 9, 2011.  MG Deering continued his support by providing the keynote address to the banquet attendees.  

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve
1555 Wilson Blvd., Suite 319, Arlington, VA 22209
800-336-4590  www.esgr.mil