Cherokee, NC–  The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians was recently recognized for their support of members of the Armed Forces.  The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians was nominated for the 2011 Secretary of Defense Employer Freedom Award by 1SGT Mark Kephart, HHC 105th Military Police Battalion, North Carolina National Guard.  Over 4,000 employers were nominated across the United States.  The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians was among the 130 semi finalist selected.  

"They allowed me to keep my health insurance on myself and family.  The Principal Chief and Vice Chief  along with several Tribal Council Members and coworkers have called me on several occasions making sure my family was being taken care of" stated 1SGT Kephart.  "My work family is much like my National Guard family and have become very important  to me and my family.  I feel very blessed to have them support me as we defend the freedom we all love". 

Principal Chief Michell Hicks stated upon receiving the award, "The Eastern Band of Cherokee Indians is proud of our service men and women.  We are happy to support those men and women in any way possible and this award signals to us that we are on the right path."

Receiving the Freedom Award Certificate and Above and Beyond Award (from left to right), Darrell Johnson, Executive Director, ESGR, North Carolina Committee, Principal Chief Michell Hicks - Eastern Band of the Cherokee Indians, David Wolfe - Yellowhill Tribal Council Representative, and Alan B Ensley - Yellow Tribal Council Representative.

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 conflict 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 Darrell Johnson, Program Support Specialist of the North Carolina ESGR Committee, at 704-279-2801.