Seattle, Washington – The Washington Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that Don Johnson, Mechanical Production Manager for Delta Marine Industries in Seattle, was honored with the Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of an employee who serves in the United States Army Reserve.

According to Larry Kirchner, ESGR King County Chair, “The Patriot Award was created by ESGR to publicly recognize individuals and firms who provide outstanding patriotic support and cooperation to their employees, who like the citizen warriors before them, have answered their nation’s call to serve.  Mr. Johnson was nominated for being highly supportive of the Army Reserve by SGT David Gooden, a Delta Marine employee and member of the 651st Harbor Master Detachment in Renton, Washington. SGT Gooden is currently deployed overseas. Supportive supervisors are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s National Guard and Reserve units.”

Delta Marine Industries has earned a worldwide reputation as a builder of custom luxury yachts.  Delta Marine is proud to be a firm that supports and hires military veterans.

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 provides education, consultation, and if necessary, mediation for employers of Guard and Reserve employees.  More information about ESGR Employer Outreach Programs and volunteer opportunities is available at www.esgr.mil, or by calling the Washington State office at (877) 306-1971.