3 SEP 2010 - Delaware ESGR Volunteer Judy Zaal honored Ms. Margaret Johnson, Manager at Concord Pet Foods, with a Patriot Award, in recognition of her extraordinary support of employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve.  The presentation took place at the Concord Pike store in Wilmington, DE.  The recipient was nominated by employee and Guard member, PFC James Keith who serves in the Delaware Army National Guard’s 126th General Support Aviation Battalion (GSAB). PFC Keith stated in his nomination that Ms. Johnson is highly supportive of his Guard service, even when called on short notice. 

At the ceremony, Ms. Johnson also signed a Statement of Support pledging her continued support to National Guard and Reserve Members.  Concord Pet Foods supports the military, taking a moment to honor all service men and women at the beginning of every staff meeting.

According to Christine Kubik, Delaware ESGR Executive Director, “the ESGR Patriot Award was created to publicly recognize individuals 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.  Supportive supervisors are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of our nation’s Guard and Reserve units.  Employers are nominated by their military employees”.

About ESGR
Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) is a Department of Defense agency with a mission to gain and maintain employer support for Guard and Reserve service by recognizing outstanding support, increasing awareness of the law, and resolving conflict through mediation. ESGR volunteers provide free education, consultation, and if necessary mediation for civilian employers of Guard and Reserve employees.  More information about ESGR Employer Outreach and Education Programs is available by calling Christine Kubik, Executive Director of the Delaware ESGR, at (302) 326-7582