Paso Robles, California– The Southern California Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, is proud to announce that Lance Silver, co-owner of Tobin James Cellars of Paso Robles, California recently signed a Statement of Support (SOS) showing the winery’s support of all the brave men and women who serve in the California National Guard and Reserve.

A Statement of Support is a symbolic document showing employers patriotic pledge to support their employees’ efforts and commitment in their dual roles as productive members of the Armed Forces Guard and Reserve and productive employees.  Mr. Silver proudly signed the Statement of Support during their annual “Not Your Average BBQ”, an event held on the winery’s grounds that he and Tobin James co-own and operate.  Many of the close to 400 attendees witnessed the signing of the SoS that was conducted by Mr. Darryl Smith, one of our valuable ESGR volunteers who happens to also be a Tobin James Wine Club member and lives in the Central Coast of California.  Mr. Silver and Mr. James are strong supporters of our military as evidenced by the plethora of photos and memorabilia that they proudly display in their impressive and patriotic tasting room. Their patriotism is a reminder of how employers such as Tobin James Cellars and others are an integral part of the security of America’s national defense and our cherished way of life.
 
According to Major General (Retired) Peter Gravett, ESGR Southern California Chair, “Almost half of our military force resides in the Reserve Component which is comprised of the National Guard and Reserve.  The men and women who serve in the Reserve Component are unique in that they also have civilian employers.  Support of America’s employers and the employees they share with the nation ensures the viability of the all-volunteer force, and thus our national security. We applaud employers who practice personnel policies that support employee participation in the National Guard and Reserve.”

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 Southern California Committee of the ESGR at 562-936-1746.