Atlanta, GA – James McGarrah, Chair of the Georgia Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (GA ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced that Senator Saxby Chambliss, United States Senator for Georgia, signed a Statement of Support for our men and women in uniform on December 14, 2009.  The signing ceremony was held at 10:30 a.m. at Senator Chambliss’ Office, 100 Galleria Parkway SE, Atlanta, GA 30339. 

Senator Chambliss said "Our Guard and Reserve members are an essential part of our nation's military and have played an increasingly important role in military operations over the past decade. They deserve the full support of every American, including that of their employers. I applaud the work of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, and am pleased to join them in expressing full support for our citizen soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines."

The Statement of Support confirms that the Offices of United States Senator Saxby Chambliss 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. 

James McGarrah said Senator Chambliss stands 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”.

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 Penelope Harbour, GA ESGR Executive Director, at 678-569-5738.