ARLINGTON, Va. – The Department of Defense announces the alignment of Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), Yellow Ribbon Program, and Individual and Family Support Policy under a single, new directorate. Family and Employer Programs & Policy, within the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs, will be led by Mr. Ronald G. Young, the current Executive Director for ESGR.
“Through this organization, the Department of Defense will be better positioned to leverage partnerships and meet the needs of our Guard and Reserve Service members, their Families, and Employers,” states the Honorable Dennis M. McCarthy, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs. “Aligning mutually supportive programs serves to preserve and enhance the all-volunteer forces of the Guard and Reserve.”
Today, nearly half of the nation’s military strength resides in the Guard and Reserve. As these dedicated men and women serve overseas or provide humanitarian aid to their fellow citizens, they depend on the sacrifice and support of their Families and their Employers here at home. Family and Employer Programs and Policy will be critical in enhancing that support by providing the necessary information and resources for Reserve Component Members, their Families and Employers.
About ESGR
ESGR is a Department of Defense agency established in 1972 whose mission is to develop and promote 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. For more information visit www.ESGR.mil or call 1-800-336-4590.
About Yellow Ribbon Program
The Yellow Ribbon Program is a Department of Defense-wide effort to help Guard and Reserve Service members and their Families connect with local resources before, during, and after deployments. Yellow Ribbon Events give Guard and Reserve Service members and their Families access to information on health care, education and training opportunities, financial, and legal benefits. For more information or to locate an event, visit www.yellowribbon.mil.
About Family Programs
The mission of OSD/RA Individual and Family Support (IFS) is to strengthen mission readiness and the Total Force by guiding DoD policies and partnerships in support of Guard and Reserve Service members and their Families. IFS supports each member’s continuum of service as they balance the civilian and military obligations and opportunities associated with military service.