Kansas City, Missouri – The Missouri Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today Michael Carter, owner, was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of the employees who serve in the Kansas National Guard and Reserve.
Carter Broadcasting Group employees join with thousands of American Employers who have reviewed their current human resources policies to ensure compliance with the Uniformed Services Employment and Re-Employment Rights Act Law (USERRA). Many 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.
Mr. Michael Carter (pictured center) says: “I am amazed by the service, and sacrifice that is continually made by the men and women of the U.S. military. So, it is with great pleasure that the Carter Broadcast Group stands with them in support of their call to serve and protect our nation.”
Spc. Chris Vedder, (pictured right), an Carter Broadcast Group employee says: “The Carter Broadcast Group sets an outstanding example for other employers, and in doing so other guardsman and reservists like myself can serve their community, state, and country with confidence, knowing they have the support of their civilian employer.” Vedder, was recently named the 2009 35th Infantry Division Association CSM Jack L. Elliott Outstanding Junior Enlisted “Soldier of the Year,” in recognition of efforts that assisted Missouri legislators in passing new laws, which will protect the parental custody rights of service members while deployed in service of their country. He is currently serving as a public affairs broadcast specialist in the Kansas Army National Guard, assigned to the 35th Infantry Division headquarters at Fort Leavenworth, KS.
According to Retired Brigadier General, Tracy Beckette, ESGR Missouri Chair, “The Patriot Award was created by ESGR to publicly recognize American Employers who provide outstanding patriotic support and cooperation to their employees, who like the Minute Men before them, have answered their nation’s call to serve. Supportive employers are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s National Guard and Reserve units.”
As the 1.2 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 America’s new Minutemen. 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 1-800-336-4590.