ESGR News

Pictured is a sampling of our brave men & women in uniform of the U.S. Army Reserve Center 114th TMMCW Unit in Fresno, CA. who are schedule to be deployed to Afganstan this year. These brave doctors, nurses, admin staff, etc, etc are ready to go perform their duty.  
 

The entire teaching and administrative support staff was on hand to witness our Patriot Award presentation to Mr. Stanley Tamashiro, Principal of Ewa Elementary School.  Mr. Tamashiro was nominated by TSgt Jennifer Kim, 154 Medical Group, Hawaii Air National Guard, who is also a second grade teacher at Ewa Elementary. 

Phoenix, AZ, January 13, 2012, Arizona Office for Employer Support of the  Guard and Reserve State Chairman, Scott Essex, Program Support Specialist, Butch Wise, and Mike Espinosa, Director of the Arizona Office, Department of  Labor, Veterans Employment and Training, conducts a Statement of Support signing ceremony with Director Laura Krause from the Arizona Society for Human  Resource Management State Council (AZ SHRM). AZ SHRM along with its other 10
state chapters previously signed the ESGR Statement of Support in 2010 at the  AZ SHRM Annual Conference.

(RENO, NV – January 19, 2012) The Nevada Committee of Employer Support of the Guard & Reserve (ESGR) recently received 22 signed Statements of Support from the Northern Nevada Jackson Hewitt Tax Service corporate owned offices.   Jackson Hewitt Tax Service Northern Nevada Area Manager, Catherine Martin, stated that in addition to that show of support they are now offering a 25% discount to the military. In the past they offered a 10% discount to the military. The southern corporate owned offices of Jackson Hewitt have also agreed to offer the discount and all combined accounts for 67 offices state-wide.

Patriotic Employer Award presented to Susan Welch from Federated Insurance company of Owatonna, MN on January 19, 2012. 
 

Montgomery, AL- Alabama ESGR District 2 Chair Richard Little (middle) presented Director of Public Safety COL Hugh McCall (right) and Assistant Director LTC Kevin Wright (left) the ESGR Patriotic Employer Award. COL McCall and LTC Wright have great responsibility to the State of Alabama's public safety, but have been willing to share its employees with the nation's military while ensuring the safety of Alabama's citizens.
 

On January 5th, Colorado Springs Utility Company employees gave a surprise welcome back party for Navy Chief Chris Ortiz, on his return from Iraq after a year’s deployment. Approximately 70 employees of the company welcomed him home, with balloons, food, hugs, and many welcome home signs.
 

Halethorpe, Maryland.  Jason Orsino, Vice President of 1st Response Medical Transportation Corporation, confirmed the company’s support for the men and women of the National Guard and Reserve on January 19, 2012 by signing an Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Statement of Support.  1st Response Medical Transportation Corporation is a family owned and operated patient transportation company dedicated to providing high quality, professional service that is centered on dignity and respect. 

Millersville, Maryland.  Anne Arundel County Fire Chief John Robert Ray confirmed his support for the men and women of the National Guard and Reserve on January 17, 2012 by signing an Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Statement of Support.

On Friday, 13 January 2012, Alaska Lieutenant Governor Mead Treadwell signed a Statement of Support with ESGR. Present at the signing were PST Jamie Abordonado, Director of Joint Staff Alaska National Guard Brigadier General Deborah McManus, State Chair Alaska Committee ESGR Rich Owens and Lieutenant Governor Mead Treadwell.

Hot Springs, Arkansas – Arkansas Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that the Hot Springs Intermediate School and Principal Becky Rosburg were honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of the employees who serve in the Arkansas National Guard and Reserve.

Little Rock, Arkansas – Arkansas Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that that Taylor Latimar, Manager of the Taylor Latimar Agency, Farmer’s Insurance Group was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of the employees who serve in the Arkansas National Guard and Reserve.

WVO associates around the globe serve our country each year by enlisting in the military as a member of the Reserves. These brave men and women perform part-time duties and rotate through different positions including combat support, service support, nation-building and civil support capabilities. Their dedication to supporting our full-time armed forces is commendable and together they protect the freedom that our country’s foundation is based upon.

Dallas, Fort Worth, TX – Dr. Jerry Icenhower, P.E., Chair of the Texas Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced that award-winning actor and humanitarian Gary Sinise signed a Statement of Support for the Guard and Reserve on Sunday, December 30, 2011.  The signing ceremony occurred at the Armed Forces Bowl festivities in front of special invitees and marks the beginning of a lasting relationship between ESGR and Mr. Sinise.

The saying goes “All roads lead to Rome.” However, in Ravalli County, all roads lead to picturesque settings in the Bitterroot Valley of Montana.  No one else knows this better than the man responsible for all roads in the area than Ravalli County Road Supervisor David Ohnstad of Hamilton, MT. 
 

2010 Above and Beyond Awardees participated in a best practices panel discussion at Marquette University's Employer Advisory Board.

NEW BRUNSWICK — WCTC radio, “The Voice of Central Jersey,” was recognized Jan. 5 by the New Jersey Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) for its role in promoting the hiring of veterans. WCTC received a personalized statement of support from the Guard and Reserve in acknowledgment of the station’s efforts in promoting this vital and important cause.

The Kansas Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, presented an ESGR Patriot Award to Secretary of State Kris Kobach on Thursday, Jan. 5, at 10 a.m.  The ceremony was held in the first floor lobby of Memorial Hall, 120 SW 10th Ave.  During the ceremony Kobach signed the ESGR Statement of Support.

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – The Illinois Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve presented a “My Boss is a Patriot” award to Sarah Phalen, President and CEO of Illinois National Bank, on December 16, 2011 at the bank’s main facility in Springfield.

The Starbuck Coffee Company, Maumelle Arkansas, signed a Statement of Support insuring their support of the National Guard and Reserve.

Gary Sinise and Dr. Jerry Icenhower (Texas State Chair) display the Statements of Support Mr. Sinise signed, for himself and the Lt. Dan Band, back stage prior to performing at the conclusion of the Bell Helicopter Armed Forces Bowl in Dallas, TX, on December 30, 2011. 

AASF#3, Mather, CA: More than 35 employers were honored by their California Army National Guard employees for the support they provide the Soldiers to let them serve their community, state, and country.
 

On December 28, 2011, the Honorable Mayor Mark Stodola of the City of Little Rock, AR signed an ESGR Statement of Support of the Guard and Reserve.

Bellevue, WA – The Washington Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today the Phyllis Ferraris of Mortenson Construction was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of its employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve.

JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAKEHURST, N.J. - Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst leaders, sitting, take turns signing an Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Statement of Support  Dec. 21, pledging their commitment to more than 13,000 Guard and Reserve members who train here.

(SMYRNA, DE)- Delaware Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, a Department of Defense agency, is proud to announce that Frank B. Ingraham, Jr. of Newark, DE was recently selected and named as the new Chair for Delaware.

Delaware Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Volunteer Angela Showell honored the Jeff Ellena of Dogfish Head Craft Brewery in Milton, DE, in recognition of their extraordinary support of employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve.   The recipient was nominated by employee SPC Christopher O'Connell who also serves in the US Army Reserve's 673rd Quarter Master Company Mortuary Affairs unit, Dover, DE.  

Jill Kienow, Human Resource Director of Clovis Community Medical Center, was nominated for a Department of Defense Patriotic Award and she signed a Department of Defense Statement of Support.

Aroostook County -  The efforts of Northern Maine Community College and its employees to support the U.S. military, specifically the efforts of national guardsmen and women, were recognized today in a surprise ceremony for employees attending the annual campus holiday gathering.

Hines Recognized with Prestigious Award for Patriotic Support of the Military Edward Hines Jr. VA Hospital received the prestigious Seven Seals Award from the Illinois Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), today in a special ceremony. 

EAW held at the NG Training Site in Smyrna, TN on 14-16 December was a very successful event.  There were a total of 23 soldiers participating in the workshop and when they were finished on noon Thursday, the went into the next room where 46 employers (who were hiring) awaited them. 

Little Rock, Arkansas, December 19, 2011 – Arkansas Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that The Pulaski County Assessor, Janet Troutman Ward was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of the employees who serve in the Arkansas National Guard and Reserve.

Little Rock, Arkansas, December 19, 2011 – Arkansas Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that The Pulaski County Assessor, Janet Troutman Ward was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of the employees who serve in the Arkansas National Guard and Reserve.

New Orleans, LA - Lt. Gen. Steven A. Hummer, the commander of Marine Forces Reserve and Marine Forces North, signs a statement of support for the Guard and Reserve in the commander's conference room here Dec. 19, 2011. The statement of support program has been the cornerstone of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserves effort to gain and maintain employer support. The intent of the program is to increase employer support of the Guard and Reserve by developing employers that advocate for employee participation in the military.  
 

Annapolis, Maryland.  Maryland State Senator James E. DeGrange, Sr. confirmed his support for the men and women of the National Guard and Reserve on December 16, 2011 by signing an Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Statement of Support.
 

Monroe, LA- On November19, 2011 members and guests of the Louisiana Committee for the Support of the Guard and Reserve (LAESGR) gathered on the campus of the University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM) to pay tribute to the men and women who serve in American's Armed Forces. This is the twelfth year that members of the Northeast Area of the LAESGR organized and managed this popular event.

California Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Chairman Mr. Andrew Wiktorowicz discussed the new H2H.jobs (HERO2HIRED) program with California National Guard Leadership during a trip to Joint Forces Headquarters in Sacramento.  This new employment program will bring much need employment resources to California which has over 63,000 Citizen Warriors in the state.   California ESGR is working with the all of the Commands of the Reserve component to battle the “War on Unemployment”. 

The Golden East (Rocky Mount, NC) chapter president, Christina Seigil signed a Statement of Support at their December meeting. Darrell Johnson, ESGR North Carolina, spoke to the group about the importance of hiring Guard and Reservists in 2012.   "It is an honor for our chapter to join all of the other SHRM chapters across North Carolina and the US in support of the men and women that service our country" stated Ms. Seigil.
 

ARLINGTON, Va. – Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Defense Department agency, is calling on Guard and Reserve members to nominate their supportive employers for the 2012 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award before the January 16 deadline. The Freedom Award is the Defense Department’s highest recognition for civilian employers supporting Guard and Reserve members. All employers - large, small and public - are eligible to receive the honor. Guard and Reserve members, or a family member acting on their behalf, may nominate their employers at www.FreedomAward.mil.

Thanks to Sergeant First Class Randy Freye, Troop B, 1-134 Cavalry Squadron, Nebraska Army National Guard, two individuals at Lincoln Industries were recognized by the Nebraska Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Committee for their outstanding support to Sergeant Frye during his two deployments. 

Ron Thomas, Vice President Human Resources, Eagle Transport, Rocky Mount, NC receives the Patriot Award from Pat Fulcher, PSS, NC ESGR Committee.  "Eagle Transport is honored to receive this award and sign the Statement of Support", states Mr. Thomas. "We recognize the sacrifices that our employees/citizen soldiers make each and every day defending our country".
 

The conference room of the Commander, U. S. Pacific Fleet, Communications was the setting for a Patriot Award presentation to Mr. Ronald McClair,  N6 Operations Officer.  Mr. McClair was nominated by LCDR Alexander Pura, USNR, citing Mr. McClair's total support of his Navy Reserve career and at COMPACFLT. "He takes tremendous effort in integrating Navy Reserve unit members into N6 operations for exercises and real world contingencies. He truly appreciates the support that he Reserve Forces bring to the fight".
 

San Jose, CA: Jeff Fredricksen, Hensel Phelps Supervisor, and Hensel Phelps Vice President, Mr. Jon Ball received the Patriot Award and signed a Statement of Support on behalf of Hensel Phelps Construction Inc. at the San Jose, California. Hensel Phelps is a nationwide corporation and the contractors who restored the Pentagon after the 9-11 Disaster. The company has been honored in the past by service members employed with Hensel Phelps. This presentation took place in their San Jose office with some 40 staff members present. Hensel Phelps is a strong supporter, and employer, of our military.

(Jackson, MS) – The Mississippi Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today Frankie Hodges of University of Mississippi Medical Center was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of its employee(s) who serve in the Mississippi National Guard and Reserve.

Little Rock, Arkansas – Arkansas Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today, December 12, 2011, that  St. Vincent Infirmary and Laboratory Supervisor, Mr. Matthew Matusiak was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of the employees who serve in the Arkansas National Guard and Reserve.

Norfolk, VA December 12, 2011.  Recently Vice Admiral Dirk  Debbink, USN, the Chief of Navy Reserve,  presented Doyle Quisenberry the “Office of the Secretary of  Defense Award for Outstanding Achievement” plaque  on behalf of the Secretary of Defense to commemorate his 13 ½ years service to military veterans and their employers through the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) organization.

Seattle, WA  Larry Kirchner, King County Chair of the Washington State Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Committee (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced that Craig Campbell, District Manager for AlliedBarton Security Services in Seattle, signed a Statement of Support for the National Guard and Reserve on Monday, December 5th.  The signing ceremony occurred at AlliedBarton’s headquarters in Tukwila.  

CALIFORNIA: December 3-4, 2011 was a busy weekend for the California Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve volunteers in California.  During these two days the volunteers supported seventeen (17) events to include Yellow Ribbon pre-deployments, unit briefings, family days, awards presentations and participated in a boss lift at Mather Air Base in Sacramento.  CA ESGR volunteers briefed Citizen Warriors from all Seven Seals of the Reserve Components. 

Chief of Police, Glenn Miller  of The Richard Stockton College of New Jersey Campus Police, signed a SOS on Thursday, December 8.  

NAVFAC, Pearl Harbor, HI-30 November 2011 Navy Facilities Engineering Commander, Pacific, was the setting for a Patriot Award presentation to Mr. Don Rochon. 

Ala Moana Center, Honolulu, HI-23 November 2011 Amid pre-Thanksgiving preparations, we presented Darcy Murakami, Manager of Apple Store, Ala Moana Center with a Patriot Award.  The award nomination was submitted by 2Lt Jonathan Patterson, 154MXS, HIANG. 

For those serving their country overseas, support from home can be priceless. This was the message shared by Ryan Vogel, train dispatcher, who recently presented Union Pacific and supervisors Steve Barkley and Randy Glynn with the Office of the Secretary of Defense Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve’s (ESGR) patriotic employer honor.

It’s just become a little easier for Freedom Wing Airmen to receive support with civilian employment issues.

Pictured is Mr. Dan Guerin, President of Maine Oxy and Maureen Aube, a member of Maine's Employer Outreach Sub-Committee.  Maureen presented Dan with a Patriotic Employer Award at a recent gathering at Maine Oxy. 

State Chairman, Bob Borek presented a Patriot Award to Mary Markovinovic, Adjunct Faculty member of the Asia Pacific Center for Security Studies.  Mary was nominated by 1SG Stephanie Hika, 117 Mobile Public Affairs Detachment (MPAD), HIARNG.

Alexandria, VA – Ms. Kimberly Suyes, Employment Initiative Program (EIP) Director and Ms. Monica Hazelwood-Frisby, PSS, of the Virginia Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense agency, participated in the official kick-off event for the Intel Corporation Veteran’s Employment Training (VET) Initiative program, an employment related event on Wednesday, November 9, 2011.  The event was held at the Gum Springs Community Center/ Intel Club House. 
 

Joint Forces Training Base (JFTB), Los Alamitos, California: Freedom Award Fever is catching on again this year at Joint Forces Training Base (JFTB), Los Alamitos. The Reserve Training Base prides itself with being the California Home of the Secretary of Defense Freedom Award. Since 1995, 15 California employers have been the recipients of the Freedom Award. Currently California has over 140 strong nominations for 2012.

Annapolis, Maryland.  David L. Stokes, Sr., Chief of the Annapolis Fire Department, reaffirmed his support for the men and women of the National Guard and Reserve on December 5, 2011 by signing an Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Statement of Support.

Winnfield, Louisiana – The Louisiana Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today Sidney Roberson, Wal-Mart Supervisor, Winnfield LA was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of employee(s) who serve in the Louisiana National Guard and Reserve. 

David Speedling had been out hunting last Friday morning, so he wondered what was up when his employee, Timothy Neau, called him and told him to he needed to come in out of the woods and be around for some visitors that were going to be calling soon.
 

At a Chief of Navy Reserve Awards ceremony on 18 November in Norfolk, the Virginia ESGR Chair, Steve Villalpando surprised VADM Dirk Debbink, USN, the Chief of Navy Reserve, as he presented him an  ESGR "Above and Beyond" award for his outstanding  support of the Virginia ESGR Committee..

Seattle, Washington – The Washington Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that Don Johnson, Mechanical Production Manager for Delta Marine Industries in Seattle, was honored with the Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of an employee who serves in the United States Army Reserve.
 

Brad Triplett had worked for Chart Cooler Services Co. for a few weeks when he received his active-duty orders.
 

Rhode Island’s entire congressional delegation and the state’s Director of Labor and Training joined Major General Kevin McBride, the Adjutant General and Commanding General of the Rhode Island National Guard in urging more than 50 employers seeking job applicants to hire the heroes at a job fair sponsored in part by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) and the U.S. Chamber of Commerce.
 

Robins Air Force Base, GA – Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense agency, announced today that Ms. Carla Holt of the United States Air Force Materiel Command was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of MSgt Agustine serving in the Air Force Reserve.

Annapolis, Maryland –The Maryland Department of Veteran Affairs’ Secretary, Ed Chow, demonstrated his agency’s support for the men and women of the National Guard and Reserve on November 29, 2011 by signing an Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve – or ESGR – Statement of Support for the Guard and Reserve.
 

(El Paso, Texas) – Dr. Jerry Icenhower, State Chair of Texas Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense agency, announced that U.S. Congressman Silvestre Reyes, 16th District of Texas, signed a Statement of Support for the Guard and Reserve on Tuesday, November 8, 2011.  The signing ceremony occurred at 8:30 AM at the Doubletree Hotel, 600 N. El Paso Street, in El Paso, Texas during “The Patriotic Promise” Veteran Recruitment Symposium.
 

ARLINGTON, Va. – Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense agency, encourages Guard and Reserve members to nominate their supportive employers for the 2012 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award as only five weeks remain until the deadline. The Freedom Award is the DoD’s highest award for civilian employers supporting Guard and Reserve members. As our nation faces ongoing national security demands, it is critically important to recognize employers that go above and beyond in their support of Guard and Reserve members and promote their support as a model for others to follow.

On Nov. 10, Orlando VA Medical Center Director Timothy W. Liezert  and Chief of Human Resources Tracy Skala formally communicated the medical center's support for its employees serving in the Guard and Reserve by signing and Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Statement of Support.  (Photo by Brian Dery)
 

MATTOON, Ill. – The Human Resources Association of East Central Illinois signed a Statement of Support for the Guard and Reserve at its November 18 chapter meeting in recognition of the important role Guard and Reserve service members play in the nation’s defense. Chapter President, April Nance, signed the Statement of Support on behalf of the chapter.
 

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Scheels took the opportunity, to sign a Statement of Support for the National Guard and Reserve at its south Springfield store on Veterans Day, Nov. 11, joining the thousands of employers and businesses across Illinois and the country that have publicly acknowledged and support the continuing contributions of Guardsmen and Reservists to the defense of our nation.

(Fort Pickett, VA) –LTC Garland Henry Goodrich of BEN-GAR Farms was awarded a Seven Seals Award by Virginia ESGR volunteer Bob Cannon on October 5 in front of his platoon at Fort Pickett.  Last year, LTC Goodrich volunteered to deploy to Afghanistan with the Agribusiness Development Team, knowing that his experience running his 500 acre row crop farm in Wakefield,Virginia gave him a unique skill set that he could use to serve his country.  Because the deployment began in the middle of the 2010 crop year and ended in the middle of the 2011 crop year, he lost two years of farm income for a one-year deployment.

Wolff Law Firm, Little Rock, Arkansas was honored on October 14, 2011 with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of their employee who serves in the United States Army Reserve.

(Oklahoma City, Oklahoma)– Oklahoma Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, a Department of Defense agency, is proud to announce that Brig. Gen (Ret) Tom Despain of Edmond, Oklahoma) was recently selected and named as the new Chair for Oklahoma.

Arkansas Children’s Hospital, Little Rock, Arkansas along with Arkansas Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve recognized the Hospital Employees that are serving in the National Guard and Reserve and who are Veterans from any period of time. The program was on Veteran’s Day at the Children’s Hospital Auditorium hosted by the Chief Executive Officer, Doctor Jonathan Bates.  Over one hundred attendees heard an inspiring address by Retired National Guard Chaplain (Colonel) James Ryan, Jr. Doctor Bates and Major General (Retired) Don Morrow, Arkansas Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Chairman, then recognized each of the 45 Veterans with a Children’s Hospital certificate, special dog tags and a Patriot Pen.
 

New York, NY – Mr. James Rebholz, National Chair of Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, announced that Mr. Vikram Pandit, Chief Executive Officer of Citigroup, signed a Statement of Support for the Guard and Reserve on November 4, 2011 at the Citi Corporate Office in New York City.   

New Orleans, LA - Several members of the Louisiana Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (LAESGR) were on hand to honor America's veterans at a ceremony held at The National WWII Museum in New Orleans on November 11. They included: Larry L. Jones, Joan Jones, Lou Gavin, Carl Mixon, Paul Siebenkittel, Terry Paulson, Don Olsen, Russell Mayeur and Phil Saitta the LAESGR Southeast Area Chair.

New Orleans, LA – Larry L. Jones, Area Chair of the Southeast Area, Louisiana Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Committee (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced that Zack Rosernburg, Director and Co-Founder signed a Statement of Support for the National Guard and Reserve on Veterans Day 11 November 2011.  The signing ceremony took place at the National World War II Museum in New Orleans, LA .  

ST. LOUIS, Mo. – What better way to celebrate Veteran’s Day than to win an award for your company’s support of veterans?

Dr Tom Stafford, Vice Chancellor, North Carolina State University (NCSU)  signed a Statement of Support prior to the start of the annual 2 mile run by 650 ROTC cadets and cadre at 0600 on Veterans Day. 

On-the farm tire assistance, passenger and truck tires, alignments, and 24 hour road service are all day-to-day operations for the Rolling Rubber Tire Factory in Miles City, Montana.  Receiving a “My Boss the Patriot Award” in honor of their support of their employee is not.  Private Cory Cheguis with the Army National Guard was on hand this fall to help Montana Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve present a Patriot Award to his civilian boss, J.R. Bean.

NJESGR maintains a visible presence in local counties by participating in veteran events.  The Atlantic County Clerk Ed McGettigan’s (pictured far left) Veterans Service Center has developed a model program for providing valuable resources and contacts for veterans, including the registration and preservation of their DD-214 discharge papers. 
 

California Employer Support of the Guard Chairman Andy Wiktorowicz presents the ESGR Seven Seals Award to Supervisor Campbell of the Orange County Board of Supervisors and Assistant Sheriff Mike James during a scheduled Board of Supervisors meeting on 9 November 2011.  The Orange County Board of Supervisors was recognized because of their support of Guard and Reservists who are employed throughout the entire Orange County Departments.  Orange County Sheriff’s Department is a 2011 recipient of the Secretary of Defense Freedom Award.. 

SPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Two family-owned Springfield companies, Perry Broughton Trucking, and Excavating, Inc. and P.H. Broughton and Sons, Inc., demonstrated their support for the men and women of the National Guard and Reserve Nov. 8 by signing an Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve – or ESGR – Statement of Support for the Guard and Reserve.

(Oklahoma City, OK) – Brig. Gen (Ret) Tom DeSpain, State Chair of the Oklahoma Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense agency, announced that Mr Sam Wampler, Owner/General Manager of Patriot Ford of Purcell, Oklahoma, has signed a Statement of Support for the Guard and Reserve on Monday, November 7, 2011.  The signing ceremony occured at the (Patriot Ford dealership.  Volunteer Paul Ray conducted the Statement of Support Signing.
 

Members of the 734th Transportation Battalion, Nebraska Army National Guard, headquartered in Kearney, NE presented Dr Gregory Miller, Kearney area chiropractor, with the pretigious ESGR Seven Seals Award in recognition of his tradition of treating service members and their dependents free of charge.

ESGR Area Chairman Mike Leyva (right) presents the Patriot Employer Award to Yuma Fire Chief Jack McArthur at the Fire Station 5 on Tuesday November 1st, 2011. The Yuma Fire Department has been nationally recognized for supporting the military and its employees who serve the country. It was unexpected, "said Mike Erfert, YFD spokesman. "It is always nice to be recognized for the policies in place and the way you work with your employees."

On 7 November, 2011 Chuck Hill (Center), Logistics and Sourcing Coordinator, Nord Resources Corporation Johnson Camp Mine, Dragoon, Arizona received an ESGR Patriot Award from PVT Joshua Lindsey, Det 1, Co B, 640th Aviation, Marana, AZ.  Pictured are Ashley Williams (L), Administrative Coordinator and John Travassos (R), Safety, Environmental and Property Manager.  PVT Lindsey is currently on a military specialty training mission.

  In connection with its 50th Anniversary observances the board of directors of Basin Electric Power Cooperative approved a motion committing Basin Electric Power Cooperative to continue its support for the Guard and Reserve as well as veterans.  Board Chairman and President Cliff Gjellstad, in the presence of the board, signed a “Statement of Support,” with the North Dakota Committee for the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR). This new Statement of Support emphasizes employment of Guard and Reserve members as well as veterans.

2nd District of Virginia U.S. Representative Scott  Rigell signs an ESGR Statement of Support during the Annual Retiree Summit & Career Fair held at JEB, Little Creek on November 5, 2011. Observing is Doyle Quisenberry, VaESGR Tidewater Committee Employer Outreach Coordinator.

Held Nov 3, 2011 in Bel Air, Maryland - multiple Maryland employers were recognized for superior suport of the Guard and Reserve employees.

On Thursday Nov 3, 2011, the Maryland ESGR Committee hosted an Awards Luncheon for 30 Harford County (MD) employers.  During the event, Wayne Dougherty, Mayor, City of Havre de Grace (MD) and David Barringer, Manager, Drayer Physical Therapy , Bel Air (MD), both signed Staements of Support. 

Bellevue, WA – The Washington Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that Chris Anderson and Bill Buetow of Boeing were honored with Patriot Awards in recognition of extraordinary support of its employees who serve in the Washington National Guard and Reserve.

The 136th Airlift Wing, Texas Air National Guard, and the Texas ESGR hosted a Employer Day at the Naval Air Station Fort Worth Joint Reserve Base on October 28th. 

Fort Wayne, IN – The Indiana Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that Karla Wygant, Supervisor, Do it Best Corp was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of her employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve.

Gaithersburg, MD – Mr. George Doetsch, Jr., Chairman of the Maryland Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Committee, announced that Mr. George Chavel, “President and CEO, Sodexo North America, reaffirmed Support for Sodexo employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve.    

In 1968, a small taco stand opened in Cheyenne, Wyoming. The “Taco House” was an instant success with the locals because of the distinctive seasonings in the tasty tacos and generously sized burritos.  In 1969, the franchise rights were purchased by two local businessmen, Harold Holmes and James Woodson.  The pair decided to name the franchise after the man who opened the first store – John.

Tanioka’s Seafoods and Catering, a landmark business in Waipahu Town, was the setting for a Statement of Support signing  by Justin Tanioka, General Manager for Operations, for this long standing family run business. 

On November 11,2011 at 11:00, Food Lion, Harveys and Reid's  re-affirmed their commitment to the Guard and Reserve when 1,284 stores, distribution centers, and department signed Statements of Support with ESGR.
 

New York, NY – Mr. James Rebholz, National Chair of Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, announced that NYSE Euronext signed a Statement of Support for the Guard and Reserve on November 3, 2011 at the New York Stock Exchange.   

The South Carolina Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (SC ESGR) has developed an alliance with the South Carolina Department of Employment and Workforce (SCDEW). SCDEW is the state of South Carolina's apex organization to promote stable employment and economic growth for all South Carolinians.

The Aloha Pacific Federal Credit Union main office was the setting for a Statement of Support signing by Malcolm Inamine, Aloha Pacific Federal Credit Union Human Resources Director.  Also on hand to witness the signing was Thomas W. Santos, Vice President of Branch Operations.  Ann Greenlee, the State Committee Vice-Chair, presided over the signing by thanking the employer for their support of our Guardsmen and Reservists and expounding on our employment initiatives.  

Hawaii ESGR Military Outreach Coordinator, Howard Sugai visited with the management team from Star Protection Agency, LLC.  There he met with Mr. Robin Medeiros, President, along with Ms. Jade Umi, Director of Human Resources to sign a Statement of Support.  Star Protection Agency employs approximately 30 Guard and Reserve service members. 

Seattle, WA – The Washington Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today Dr. Julie Harris of the Allen Institute for Brain Science was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of her extraordinary support of its employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve.

Joni Pentifallo, Lt Col Vermont Air National Guard recently returned from 2 years in Dakar, Senegal where she was the Bilateral Affairs Officer for the State Partnership Program between Senegal and Vermont.  The Patriot Award was presented to Gordon Rice for his continued  support to Lt Col Joni Pentifallo throughout her deployment.  The award was presented during a Regional Information Exchange Meeting held in Syracuse, NY on Oct 12, 2011.
 

SMYRNA,TN. – Tennessee’s Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) carried 22 local employers on a Bosslift to Tennessee’s premiere National Guard Training Site in Tullahoma, TN.  Soldiers use the site to conduct realistic combat training to hone their skills for deployment to Iraq and Afghanistan.

Greenfield, IN– Doug Gibbens, Indiana Executive Operating Officer Chair of the Indiana  Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Committee (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced that Dr. Bobbie Keen, President and CEO of Hancock Regional Hospital signed a Statement of Support for the National Guard and Reserve on Tuesday, 4 October, 2011 . The signing ceremony was at the Hancock Regional Hospital.  

Bismarck, N.D. — North Dakota’s Committee for the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, or ESGR, recognized Greg Wilz for 7 years of service as the ND ESGR State Chair at a ceremony Monday in Bismarck.  The State Chair is a volunteer, unpaid duty appointment made by the Office of the Secretary of defense.
 

California Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve combined with the California Army National Guard Yellow Ribbon program to conduct an “Employment Summit” focusing on getting employment skills (resume writing/interview assistance/job searching ) that are much needed before attending Hiring/Job Fairs.  This event provided resources from the following agencies ESGR, EPAF-Employer Partnership of the Armed Forces, EDD- Employment Development Department, One-Stop, U.S Vets, and also profession Human Resource managers. 
 

In September, Congressman Sean Duffy (7th Congressional District, Wisconsin) met with Wisconsin ESGR members from Area #8 and with the owners of Weather Shield Manufacturing in Medford, WI.

Guard and Reserve service members, or a family member on their behalf, may now nominate their supportive employer at www.FreedomAward.mil.  The nomination will run through January 16, 2012 at midnight Eastern Time.  More information about the nomination and review process can be found at www.FreedomAward.mil.

On 19 OCT 2011, Lieutenant Junior Grade Myke Cole presented Anne Sowards, his acquiring editor at Penguin Books, with the ESGR Patriot Award.
 

Seattle, Washington – The Washington Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that Robb Courtney, Parks Division Director, Seattle Parks and Recreation, was honored with the Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of an employee who serves in the Washington Army National Guard.

Bellevue, WA – The Washington Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that Doug Hansen, President of Airbag Service was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of its employees who serve in the Washington National Guard and Reserve.

Demonstrating their encouragement and promotion for the secure employment of members of the Guard and Reserve as well as veterans, MDU Resources Group, Inc. President and CEO Terry Hildestad has announced his company will be signing a new formal "Statement of Support," with the North Dakota Committee for the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR). The new Statement of Support emphasizes employment of Guard and Reserve members as well as veterans.

Los Angeles, CA: – State Chair, Andrew Wiktorowicz and his wife Karen with Region Two Co-Chairs Roxanne Talman and Gil Florez. of Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense agency, presented the Above and Beyond award to Fox Sports. The award was presented to David Hill, Chairman of Fox Sports. Terry Bradshaw, of the nationally famous “Talent Team” signed the Statement of Support certificate. The event was recorded for broadcasting in order to be played during its live sports programming at a later date.

Atlanta, GA – Georgia Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (GA ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced that Rob Bennett, Operations Manager, Mitusibishi Power Systems was honored with a ‘Patriot’ Award for support of his employees who serve in the Georgia National Guard and Reserve. 
 

Two weeks ago, WI ESGR's new Public Affairs intern received New Member Orientation and saw firsthand ESGR Employer Outreach activity during the Wisconsin Society of Human Resources Managers annul Conference in Madison.  

Seattle, WA – The Washington Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today Special Agent Lloyd Temple, Immigrations & Custom Enforcement, U.S Department of Homeland Security was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of employees whose spouses serve in the National Guard and Reserve.

(Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania) – The Southwestern Pennsylvania Area Committee of Employer Support of the Guard and the Reserve (ESGR) will recognize area employers for their outstanding support of their employees who are members of the National Guard and Reserves.  The event is cosponsored by the Allegheny County Bar Association and Soldiers and Sailors Memorial Hall and Museum.
 

On OCT 12th at the Oshkosh Area School Board  meeting,  military wife Amy Locke presented the Patriot Award to Dr Ann Schultz (Oshkosh West High School Principal).  The award was for both West High and the School District for all of the support they provided while her husband was deployed.

More than forty employers interviewed a large group of veterans from all services on September 28th in Charleston.  The event “Hiring our Heroes” was initiated by the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and was the first in a scheduled series across the nation.  The U.S. Department of Labor and Workforce WV coordinated the job fair assisted by WV ESGR.  Interviews with employers and job seekers were all positive.
 

On October 5th, 2011 WV ESGR appeared before the  the annual meeting of West Virginia state SHRM assembly in Bridgeport, WV, and took the opportunity to speak on WV ESGR and have SHRM sign a new Statement of Support.

Jim Oliver, Founder (President) of AvL Technologies received a Patriot Award for his support of of SPC Mark D. Chambers’ service in the United States Army Reserve and during a recent deployment to Iraq with the 392nd Enhanced Signal Battalion (ESB), Baltimore, Maryland. 

On the first day of the fiscal year, WI ESGR achieves a signing from Free and Accepted Mason Lodges throughout the state. Grand Master of Masons in Wisconsin, Davey L. White Jr. (right) reads the statement of support after signing it at the recent staff meeting in Wisconsin Rapids, as Grand Secretary Michael A. DeWolf looks on.

The statements are going out to all Masonic Lodges in Wisconsin to be displayed in support of our country's service members and their families.
 

Representatives of eight Kentucky corporations signed statements of support for Employer Support to the Guard and Reserve on October 1, 2011 while participating in the ESGR-Panther Racing "Indy Car Experience"  at Kentucky Speedway prior to the running of the Kentucky 300 Indy Car race.

Oklahoma Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (OKESGR) Committee recently conducted its Annual Employer Awards Banquet on Friday, September 9, 2011, at the Sheraton Reed Conference Center in Midwest City, Oklahoma to recognize employers who provide extraordinary support to employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve.  

University of Nebraska-Lincoln Police Chief Owen Yardley was honored with the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Patriotic Employer Award on Thursday, October 6, in recognition of his outstanding support to Senior Master Sergeant Carl Oestmann, Nebraska Air National Guard. 

Dear Abby’s best advice to Montana employers would be to hire Montana Guard and Reserve members.  Jeanne Phillips, better known as legendary advice columnist “Dear Abby” signed a Montana Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (MT ESGR) Statement of Support while visiting the Montana Air National Guard 120th Fighter Wing in Great Falls, Montana.  ESGR is a U.S. Department of Defense Agency that seeks to promote a culture in which all American Employers support and value the military service of their employees.

September 14, 2011,Tucson, Arizona, Petty Officer Carlos Figueroa (center) presents the ESGR Patriot Award to Nicole Rivas(L), District Manager, Vantage West Credit Union.  Attending the presentation is Rene Almazan(R), Senior Vice President/Chief Lending Officer (prior service Navy).  Petty Officer Figueroa states: As an employee of Vantage West Credit Union I feel greatly supported and appreciated by the staff and management.  Vantage West takes the time to honor those who sacrifice their lives for our freedom and those currently deployed.

On 27-28 September Alaska committee held our annual APAC training and Employer Awards Banquet. The training event was a tremendous success.

Mandeville, LA– Jimmy Rogers, Florida Parishes Sector Chair of the Louisiana Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Committee (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced that Mr. Donnie Frederic, President and CEO of Louisiana Medical Center and Heart Hospital signed a Statement of Support for the National Guard and Reserve on Thursday, 29 August, 2011. The signing ceremony was at the Medical Center.  

Arkansas Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) and the 189th Airlift Wing, Arkansas Air National Guard hosted a Briefing with the Boss, Saturday, 1 October. Seven employers of Air National Guard members received briefings from Colonel Steve Eggensperger, 189th Wing Commander on the wing mission emphasizing the importance of employer support.

FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. – Between the machine gun simulator and the ride on a Missouri National Guard UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter, Joni Light couldn’t remember when she had so much fun.

The Lakewood BlueClaws, a NJ minor league baseball team, signed an "on field" Statement of Support during  "ESGR Night" at the stadium.  With Mr. Joe Harrington, Operations Director for the BlueClaws and NJ ESGR Chairman Alan Smith, were "My Boss is a Patriot Award" winners, and Command Sergeant Major Jenkins, NJ National Guard and Chief Master Sergeant Francis NJ Air National Guard.

Oklahoma City, Oklahoma – BG (Ret) Gary Bray, State Chair of the Oklahoma Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced that Major General Myles Deering, The Adjutant General of Oklahoma, signed a Statement of Support for the National Guard and Reserve on September 9, 2011.  The signing ceremony occurred at the Oklahoma Committee Annual Planning and Awards Conference Banquet.

Auburn, WA – The Washington Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that Nancy Hamilton, GSA Federal Acquisition Service was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of her employee who serves in the United States Coast Guard Reserve (USCGR).

Baltimore, Maryland– The Maryland Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (MDESGR), an agency of the a staff group within the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs , honored Praxis Engineering Technology, a 2011 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Award Semi-Finalist in the Small Business category, with the prestigious Pro Patria Award.
 

Little Rock, Arkansas – Arkansas Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today, September 23, 2011, that Brad Barnett, owner of Brad Barnett Insurance Agency, Little Rock, Arkansas, was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of his employee that serves in the United States Army Reserve.

Baltimore, Maryland– The Maryland Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, an agency of the a staff group within the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs , honored Clark Construction Group, LLC, a 2011 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Award Semi-Finalist in the Large Business category, with the prestigious Pro Patria Award.

Yuma, Arizona-Mr. Mike Leyva, Yuma ESGR Chair accepting a proclamation from the Yuma Board of County Supervisors declaring the week of 19-23 as Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Week. The Proclamation states Yuma's continued dedication to our National Guard and Reserve forces here in Arizona and their continued support of USERRA and Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) in southern Arizona.

ARLINGTON, Va. – Governor Bob McDonnell met with representatives of Integrity Applications Incorporated (IAI) of Chantilly to congratulate the company for being one of only 15 employers in the nation to receive the 2011 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. The Freedom Award is the Department of Defense’s highest recognition given to employers for exceptional support of their employees serving in the Guard and Reserve.  Mr. David L. McGinnis, Acting Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs attended the event to express appreciation to IAI on behalf of DoD. Leaders from Virginia Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), the Commonwealth’s chapter of the DoD agency, also joined the event to represent both Virginia’s Guard and Reserve members and their employers.

The evening of October 1, 2011, the 20th Anniversary of President William J. Clinton’s announcement of his bid for the United States Presidency, President Clinton graciously and generously took time to sign a Statement of Support with Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR). This Statement confirms that President Clinton will continually recognize and support our country’s service members and their families in peace, in crisis and in war. ESGR is a U.S. Department of Defense Agency that seeks to promote a culture in which all American Employers support and value the military service of their employees.

With the insight of WI ESGR full time staff member Doris Schmitt, the Wisconsin Committee of ESGR received a proclamation from The Office of the Governor, State of Wisconsin declaring the week of September 18th 2011 as Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Week. 

COLUMBUS, Ga. – Today, Congressman Sanford D. Bishop, Jr. (GA-02) was presented with the Patriot Award from the Georgia Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve (GA ESGR). The award recognizes employers for their support of National Guard and Reserve members. During the award presentation ceremony, Congressman Bishop received a Department of Defense Patriot Award Certificate and a Patriot lapel pin. Congressman Bishop was nominated for the Patriot Award by Captain Michael Bryant of the National Guard.  CPT Bryant is an employee of the Office of the U.S. Congressman Bishop. 

First State Bank President John Doffing was presented Wednesday morning with the “Seven Seals Award” by Jim Sullivan, Executive Director of the Minnesota Committee of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve.   

ARLINGTON, Va. – Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, a Department of Defense agency, honored 15 employers September 22nd with the 2011 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. Prior to the ceremony, recipients met privately with Secretary of Defense Leon Panetta.  During this meeting, the recipients presented Secretary Panetta with the first Statement of Support signed under his watch. 

Atlanta, GA – Georgia Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (GA ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced that Tony Strange, Chairman and CEO, Gentiva was honored with a ‘Patriot’ Award for support of his employees who serve in the Georgia National Guard and Reserve. 
 

Monroe, LA - The Louisiana Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that Mr. Jerry Butler with Domino’s Pizza in Monroe, LA was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of its employee(s) who serve in the Louisiana National Guard and Reserve. 

The Louisiana Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that Angela M. Nolan of JP Morgan Chase was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of its employee(s) who serve in the Louisiana National Guard and Reserve.

When four paratroopers jump from a Chinook helicopter at 1.500 feet and land in the field behind an elementary school in West Kingston one my not think they are forming a bond between civilian employers and the military.

When representatives of Rhode Island's ESGR got together with Leadership Rhode Island for an informative and fun day of flying in the new C-130-J military aircraft from Quonset, and watching the navy train at Newport, the reality of civilians defending our country became clear for any business organization losing part its workforce to national security.
    

DES MOINES, Iowa – September 12, 2011 – Three Iowa employers received the Iowa ESGR Governor’s Awards in a ceremony today by Governor Terry Branstad. Dick Rue, chairman of the Iowa Committee of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), and other ESGR officials joined in the ceremony.  In addition, Governor Branstad signed a Proclamation designating the week of Sept. 18 – 24 as Iowa Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Week.

Delaware Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (DE-ESGR) held its 2011 Employer Recognition Banquet on Thursday, September 8, 2011, in Dover, Delaware to recognize employers who provide extraordinary support to employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve.   The state’s top honor, the Pro Patria Award, was presented to Kent County Levy Court.   County Commissioner President P. Brooks Banta, and County Administrator Michael Petit de Mange, attended and accepted the award on the organization’s behalf.

Since September 11, 2001, the 9/11 Generation has borne the burden of war with courage and valor, continuing the legacy of the brave men and women who served before them.  More than five million volunteers have worn our country's uniform over the past 10 years, and thousands have given their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan.  Making up nearly half of our military power, the National Guard and Reserve are vital to our operations at home and abroad.

September 8, 2011, Payson, Arizona, Town of Payson, Arizona Mayor Kenny Evans presents Arizona Office for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Staff  Member, Butch Wise a Proclamation declaring the week of September 19-23, 2011 as Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Week.

Mr. Darren Venters(L), Chairman, Southern Arizona ESGR Committee, accepting a proclamation from Mr. Ray Carroll(R), Supervisor, District 4, Pima County Board of Supervisors in Tucson, Arizona on 6 September, 2011.  

Target rich environment for Statement of Support signings from exhibitors at last month's National Guard Association of the United States Annual Conference in Milwaukee. Attached photo shows Patriot Taxiway Industries President Steve Smits (second from left) with (L to R) Capt Kristin Rebholz-Hatten, WI Air National Guard; Jim Rebholz, National Chairman, ESGR; MAJ Lekesha Hance, Public Affairs Officer ESGR; and Kevin McDermott Vice President of Business Development for Patriot Taxiway.
 

Little Rock, Arkansas – Arkansas Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), presented a Patriot Award to The Arkansas Children’s Hospital Cardiovascular Intensive Care Unit on September 1, 2011 for outstanding support of the Guard and Reserve.

Seattle, Washington – The Washington Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that Gene Raisanen, Operations Manager for Delta Air Lines Cargo Operations in Seattle, was honored with the Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of an employee who serves in the United States Air Force Reserve.

White House Calls for Service on 9/11 Anniversary:  President Barack Obama has renewed his annual message for Americans to devote the 9/11 anniversary to a day of service, a White House official said today...

Read more and see more photos at Defense.gov

Mandeville, LA– Jimmy Rogers, Florida Parishes Sector Chair of the Louisiana Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Committee (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced that Mr. Geoff Hingle, President and CEO of PMO Link signed a Statement of Support for the National Guard and Reserve on Friday, 26 August, 2011. The signing ceremony was at the PMO Link Office.  
 

San Jose, California: On Tuesday,  July 26, 2011, California ESGR volunteers James D. Franklin, Thomas Clausen. and John Woolley, presented The Patriot Award and The Statement of Support to Mr. Paul Sanchirico, Vice President with Cisco Systems of San Jose, CA. Mr Sanchirico was nominated by Captain Jon (Ed) Novak, HHC 26th MEB, United States Army National Guard, home based in Reading, MA.

Chief of Police, Michael McNeil of the Lumberton, North Carolina Police Department receives a “My Boss Is a Patriot” award from Jim Rorie; Awards Chairman, North Carolina Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR).  Chief McNeil was nominated for the Patriot Award by Specialist Ronald B Chavis, Company B, 1/120th CAB, NC ARNG in Lumberton. 
 

City of Memphis Mayor A.C. Wharton proclaimed Wednesday, August 10, 2011, as a day to celebrate Tennessee National Guard and Reserve Members and Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve and encourage citizens to show appreciation accordingly.  Pictured are TN ESGR Memphis Area Chair, Joe Kyles, Mayor Wharton, and TN ESGR Chair, Carl Lambert. 

Outgoing New Mexico State Chair Crawford "Budgie" Green, right, officially "hands over" the ESGR flag to incoming Field Chair Ray Battaglini during a Change of Command Ceremony at a summer 2011 New Mexico State Committee meeting of area chairs and select executive council members held in Pojoaque, New Mexico. Green will complete a three-year term as chair the end of September. Battaglini has chaired a southeastern New Mexico ESGR committee for more than ten years.
 

Outgoing New Mexico State Chair Crawford "Budgie" Green, right, officially "hands over" the ESGR flag to incoming Field Chair Ray Battaglini during a Change of Command Ceremony at a summer 2011 New Mexico State Committee meeting of area chairs and select executive council members held in Pojoaque, New Mexico. Green will complete a three-year term as chair the end of September. Battaglini has chaired a southeastern New Mexico ESGR committee for more than ten years.
 

Gretna, Louisiana – The Louisiana Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today the Gretna Police Department Chief of Police Arthur Lawson, Deputy Chief of Police Anthony Christiana and LT Jason DiMarco were honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of their employees who serve in the Louisiana National Guard and Reserve.

Cannon Beach, OR: California volunteers, Dennis and Cheryl DeNoi, while on an extended trip of the Northwest in their motor home had a unique and international Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) encounter while camping at Cannon Beach RV Resort in Cannon Beach, Oregon.

With the sun setting over the Waikiki Beach, the Hawaii Committee held its Annual Award Banquet at the Waikiki Beach Resort and Spa, Marriott, August 13, 2011. 

On Saturday, August 20, 2011, Hawaii ESGR volunteers Clyde and Arlene Yoshimura, presented a Patriot Award on behalf of the spouse of Army Reservist MSG Philip Vierra, to Russell Lee, manager of Hawaii Kai Costco Wholesale. 

The Old Army Reserve Building in Great Falls, Montana was filled to capacity with 72 employers and educators willing to showcase their jobs and education opportunities exclusively for Montana Reserve Component members, military spouses, and veterans during the Montana Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Job and Education Fair held in mid-August. 

Bellevue, WA – The Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that Barbara Murdock, Head Surgery Nurse at Overlake Hospital was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of its employees who serve in the Washington National Guard and Reserve.

While the 219th Squadron of the Montana Air National Guard was deployed earlier this year in Afghanistan, it became clear that some of the Guard members would be unemployed upon their return to the United States.

United States Senator John Boozman of Arkansas signed a Statement of Support for the Guard and Reserve. Senator Boozman signed the Statement of Support during his address to the Arkansas Veterans Coalition meeting in Sherwood, Arkansas on Friday, August 19, 2011.

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 semifinalist selected.  

Leaha Hicks, Human Resources Administrator with Sunquest Information Systems, Tucson, Arizona receives the Seven Seals Award  fortheir 2011 nomination for the Secretary of Defense Employer Freedom Award.
Accompanying is Martin Rodriguez, Diagnostic Solutions Specialist.  

Accepting their second Seven Seals Award from the Southern AZ ESGR Committee is Mr. Will Haas, Manager, Operations Research Dept. with Raytheon Missile Systems.   Nominated by Lt. Ryan Embree, Bulk Fuel, Alpha Co., 6th Engineer Support Battalion, 4th Marine, Tucson, AZ.
 

PANAMA CITY, Fla – Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division Commander Capt. Thomas Brovarone was recognized for its outstanding support to employees who also serve in the Reserves and National Guard during a ceremony on Aug. 24, 2011.

Accepting the ESGR Above and Beyond Award is Richard Salazar,  Alcoa Fastening Systems, Tucson, AZ.  They were nominated by Staff Sgt Raymond Tellez, Det 1, Charlie Co, 3rd/140th, ARNG,  Marana, AZ. 

Florida League of Cities Board of Directors, President Mayor Joy Cooper and Executive Director Mike Sittig receive the Special SOS Award for their outstanding support during their Annual Conference in Orlando, FL.

Bonney Lake, Wash. – East Pierce Fire and Rescue Fire received a Patriot Award from the National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) at a monthly fire commissioner’s meeting Tuesday night. The award was presented to East Pierce Fire Chief Jerry E. Thorson and the Board of Fire Commissioners by ESGR Employer Outreach Coordinator for Washington State Arlo Bower.

Accepting the ESGR Above and Beyond Award on behalf of Mr. Ed Beshore, Director, Catalina Sky Survey is Mr. Richard Hill, Team Member.   The nominator was Sgt Jeffery Ahern, 6263rd Medical Support Unit, Tucson, AZ.  
 

Accepting the Patriot Award on behalf of Mr. James Dickson, CEO, Copper Queen Community Hospital, Bisbee, Arizona is Ms. Lisa Cummings, Director Outpatient Services.

The Wisconsin Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that Carmen Luther and Janet Volk of Reedsburg Area Medical Center were honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of one of their employees – Lieutenant Commander (LDCR) Sharon Warsaw, who is currently deployed to Afghanistan and serves in the United States Naval Reserve, located in Green Bay, WI.

Lt R.J. Rodriguez, Santa Cruz Sheriff's Office, Nogales, Arizona receives the ESGR Patriot Award.  Nominator was PO2 Chad Matthews,  CFA Chinhae Det 4, USNR, Tucson,AZ.

Dian Larrew, Bryan LGH Hospital, recently was honored with a presentation of the ESGR Patriotic Employer Award by the Nebraska ESGR Committee. 

Phoenix, Arizona Office of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (AZESGR) presented Mrs. Cheryl A. Ramirez from Bank of America with the Patriot Award; submitted by PO 3rd Class Jacqueline E. Kemmerer who stated:

On Thursday, 14 July, ESGR was invited to the Palo Alto Research Center, (PARC), a Division of XEROX, Inc, to present the PATRIOT AWARD; an ABOVE AND BEYOND AWARD; The SEVEN SEALS AWARD and also the STATEMENT OF SUPPORT.

Joint Base Andrews, MD – Naval Air Facility (NAF) Washington In partnership with the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), DC ESGR Committee hosted a successful luncheon for local employers.

Phoenix, Arizona Office of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (AZESGR) presented Mrs. Erin Gonzalez, and Elizabeth Rakestraw from Triumph Air Repair with the Patriot Award; submitted by PO 1st Class Randy Tadevich.

Phoenix, Arizona Office of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (AZESGR) presented Mr. Michael Jackson from USAA with the Patriot Award submitted by PO 3rd class Nick Curry.
 

Oklahoma City, OK - Housing and Urban Development (HUD) employee was honored Aug. 8, 2011, with the Patriot Award by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR). The ESGR is a Department of Defense organization that promotes cooperation and understanding between civilian employers and National Guard or Reserve Component military service members.

Ed Buttrey (right) from MT ESGR presented Avmax President John Binder with the Above and Beyond Award prior to the Airdrie Airshow near Calgary Alberta, which Buttrey attended as the special guest of Binder. 
 

Arkansas ESGR held its annual Employer Awards Luncheon at the Embassy Suites in Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas. 30 Arkansas Employers were awarded Above and Beyond awards.

Gowen Field, Idaho - A family in Pocatello experienced what they are calling, “Extreme Home Makeover: Army Edition,” recently after several months of trying to get their homeowner’s insurance to cover water damage from a flood in their basement.

Hemet, CA: California Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve and CDR Dan Burns, Commander Naval Operations Support Center (NOSC) Moreno Valley recognized seven employers during an “Employers Breakfast” in Moreno Valley California on 27 July 2011 as part of USNR Employer Appreciation Month.

Hemet, CA: PV2 Enrique Samano of the California Army National Guard (756th Transportation Company) presents his supervisor Sharon Nelson of Deutsch Industrial an Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve “Patriot Award.”  PV2 Samano , deploying on 8 August 2011 stated, “My boss has been very supportive about what I do.  She has shown that by making sure that all of my benefits were properly reinstated when I came back from training.  She is also letting people know that she is very proud of having me in the company.”

Hiring our Heroes is a 100-city initiative planned for this year to help veterans and their spouses find jobs. Since this will take place in 100 cities, there may be a job fair coming to your area!

The Nebraska Army National Guard's 267th Maintenance Company drill weekend was visited by numerous employers of unit soldiers during their annual Employer Appreciation Day.  Employers and ESGR volunteers were given a unit briefing, including their unit history and deployments; a tour of the Combined Support Maintenance Shop, including a Mobile Kitchen Trailer set up, shop operations, electronics, and armament sections.

The Illinois Committee for the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) hosted a three-day trip for employers of Guard and Reserve members and community leaders July 27-29.  The trip is known as Bosslift and the destination for 2011 was Colorado Springs.

Last month, 33 Nebraskans visited Selfridge Air National Guard Base, Michigan, to visit the Reserve Component units stationed there.  While at Selfridge, they visited the 107th Fighter Wing, and experienced the thrill of flying the A-10 simulator.

Hot Springs, Arkansas – Arkansas Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that Mark Williford, supervisor with the Hot Springs Post Office was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of his employee who serves in United States Army Reserve.

Hot Springs, Arkansas – Arkansas Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that the David Flory, Chief of Police, Hot Springs, Arkansas was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of his employees who serve in the Arkansas National Guard and Reserve.

A group of eighteen employers from all over the State of Mississippi were treated to a flight hosted by the 172nd Airlift Wing from Thompson Field out of Jackson from July 13 – 15 2011. Employers boarded a C-17 in Jackson, and landing at the Combat Readiness Training Center (CRTC) in Gulfport, Mississippi. Upon arrival at the CRTC, our employers were treated to lunch and briefings from the CRTC, 255th ACS, 209th CES, ACMI, Mississippi Army National Guard Hurricane Response Team and an ESGR brief.

August 5th, 2011 Nebraska Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Committee members Steve Hokamp and Steve Tellatin presented a Patriot award to John Borchers of DeBruce Grain.

Calico Rock, Arkansas – Arkansas Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that The Arkansas Department of Corrections, North Central Corrections Facility, was honored with  Patriot Awards in recognition of extraordinary support of its employees who serve in the Arkansas National Guard and Reserve.

PORTLAND, Ore. - A U.S. Department of Agriculture Natural Resources Conservation Service (NRCS) employee was honored Aug. 2, 2011, with the Patriot Award by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR). The ESGR is a Department of Defense organization that promotes cooperation and understanding between civilian employers and National Guard or Reserve Component military servicemembers.

Hot Springs Village, Arkansas – Arkansas Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that the Christ of the Hills United Methodist Church was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of its Pastor who serves in the United States Air Force Reserve.

On the island of Hawaii, nearly a mile-high on the natural plateau between two of the world’s largest dormant volcanoes, is the US Army’s Pohakuloa Training Area (PTA), the largest military training area in the Pacific.

On August 2, Rob Carmichael (State Chair for Maine's Committee) hosted a "Breakfast with the Boss" event in Portland, Maine.  Nineteen area employers were invited to the Embassy Suites for breakfast, briefing on ESGR/USERRA, and then a presentation ceremony.  Major General John W Libby, The Adjutant General for Maine, was the keynote speaker.  MG Libby emphasized the importance of employer support to our national defense and service members' ability to serve our nation.

East Coast Service Center is a new business in Casco and has committed their support to the men and women who serve our Nation in the National Guard and Reserve.  They have committed to fully support the provisions outlined in the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Act of 1994.  Any Pattle is currently serving as a First Sergeant in the National Guard and deployed to Iraq with the 133rd Engineer Battalion in 2003.  Jeremie St Pierre is a son of a retired Coast Guardsmen.  Andy and Jeremie are two of four Master Certified Emergency Vehicle Technicians in the State of Maine. Both appreciate the service and sacrifice that service members make for our Nation.  East Coast Service Center will proudly display their Statement of Support certificate in their customer waiting area.
 

NEW ORLEANS - The Navy Operational Support Center (NOSC) at Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base (NAS JRB) New Orleans hosted an employer day July 21 for civilian employers of its Navy Reservists.

Western Systems & Fabrication Inc., Spokane Valley, was a semifinalist for the highest Department of Defense award given to supportive employers of National Guard & Reserve members, The Freedom Award.  Western Systems & Fabrications employee Scot Frazer is a platoon sergeant with the Army Reserves, and he deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.  Frazer nominated his employer for their outstanding support to the military.
 

WASHINGTON, Aug. 1, 2011 – Retired Army 1st Sgt. Renee Floyd wasn’t about to let a disability stop her from realizing her dream of having her own business.

WILMINGTON, DE - Together with leadership of Navy Operational Support Center (NOSC) Wilmington, DE, the Delaware Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) hosted a “Commander’s Breakfast with the Boss” on July 21, 2011, for civilian employers and their respective employees, who also serve in the Navy Reserve.
 

(Charlottesville, VA) –CAPT Robert F. O'Neil, Commander of the of Navy Operational Support Center in Norfolk, Virginia, presented the Patriot Award to the principals of Scott Kroner PLC on July 14, 2011 in honor of the U.S. Navy’s Employer Appreciation Month.  The law firm was nominated by LCDR Wesley Martin, who serves as Deputy Command Judge Advocate General in the U.S. Navy Reserve.  "Members of the law firm have hosted my spouse for meals, provided tremendous Christmas care packages and other care packages, and corresponded with me throughout my time in the desert,” stated Martin.  His wife attended the presentation on her husband’s behalf, mentioning how "extremely grateful" they are to the firm for its support.

Arkansas ESGR held its annual Employer Awards Luncheon on 21 July, 2011. The event took place at the Embassy Suites in Hot Springs National Park, Arkansas. 30 Arkansas Employers were awarded Above and Beyond certificates.

Dian Clark, HR Manager at the 70th & Pioneer Hy-Vee Store in Lincoln, was surprised with a Patriotic Employer award this past week.  She was nominated for the award by Specialist John Garrett, a member of the US Army Reserve.  In his nomination, Garrett writes, "...Dian Clark deserves recognition for being very supportive of my current military career in the US Army Reserve....."  Presenting the award was Carl Novak, Vice-Chair of the Nebraska ESGR Committee. 

Kingman, AZ, July 20, 2011, Arizona Office for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve North West Arizona Employer Outreach Coordinator, Gretchen Fiske (far right) presents Blue Beacon General Manager Robert Young, and two other Blue Beacon co-workers, Chris Willis and Jesus Muro Del Real their ESGR Patriot Awards for their outstanding support of Petty Officer Second Class Jeffrey Havenner.

(Charlottesville, VA) – Piedmont Area Chair Jan Godfrey of the Virginia Committee of Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve awarded the City of Charlottesville with a Seven Seals Award and Fire Department Battalion Chief David Hartman with a Patriot Award at the Charlottesville Community Music Festival on July 2, 2011.  Charlottesville was celebrating 35 years of their Downtown Mall and used the festivities to kick off their July 4th weekend celebrations.  

After the Stripes Convenience Store president signed a Statement of Support, the Roswell New Mexico ESGR Committee re-enacted the national signing with the area manager.

(Camp Atterbury, IN) – The Adjutant General of Virginia MG Daniel E. Long, Jr. hosted twelve Virginia employers on a “Boss Lift” to see the Virginia National Guard's Task Force 183 train for mobilization to Iraq. A military aircraft took the employers to Columbus, Indiana before they boarded a bus bound for Camp Atterbury.  Not only did the employers observe basic training on defense operations and engaging Iraqi nationals, they ate MREs for lunch just as their employees do and talked with the commander of Task Force 183, LTC Bill Korsen.  

WASHINGTON, July 25, 2011 – First Lady Michelle Obama and Dr. Jill Biden, wife of Vice President Joe Biden, took their “Joining Forces” campaign to New Hampshire yesterday, telling National Guard and reserve families to “keep doing what you’re doing,” while they work to support military families in the best ways possible.

By Lisa Daniel American Forces Press Service

Bethesda, Md., (July 18, 2011) – Brian Gragnolati, Senior Vice President, Johns Hopkins Health Care System and President and CEO, Suburban Hospital, was recognized recently as a Patriotic Employer by the National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) on July 15. 

SPRINGFIELD, IL -- Springfield Police Chief, Robert Williams, was presented with the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Patriotic Employer Award July 8 for his outstanding support to officers in the department who also serve their country in the National Guard and Reserve. Williams received the Patriot Award based on the nomination of Illinois Army National Guard Sergeant 1st Class, Brandon Golden.

Olla, Louisiana – The Louisiana Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that LA-ESGR area chair Dr. Bob Gillan, presented Mayor Pro-Tem Al Cassels and the Town of Olla with the Seven Seals Award. The Seven Seals award is presented to those employers who have signed a "Statement of Support" and have gone above and beyond in their efforts to serve the needs of mobilized National Guardsmen and Reservists. In addition, they have been nominated by a service member and commended for their notable support for our Guard and Reserve. Along with Statement of Support, each Alderman also received a "Boss Patriot Pin." The Town of Olla was nominated by its Mayor, Jason D. Chisolm, who is currently serving with his Louisiana Air National Guard unit in Afghanistan.

FORT LEONARD WOOD, Mo. –   About 20 representatives from St. Louis area businesses recently spent a day on post to gain a better understanding of the military experience some of their employees go through.

Mandeville, Louisiana - Recently three new member volunteers of the Louisiana Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserves (LAESGR) received new member indoctrination and training for their role as advocates for those men and women serving in the Louisiana National Guard and Reserve components. They are Slidell, LA residents MSgt Michael B. Johnson, USAF (Ret) who served in the Desert Storm and Enduring Freedom campaigns. He is the Military Education representative for the Martinsburg Institute, a distant learning facility located in Martinsburg, WVA and Ryan Nelson who is a franchise owner of TRK Knives & Accessories. Naomi E. Roundtree is a resident of Ponchatoula, LA. She is a US Army veteran who served in Kuwait. She is employed as the Human Resource Director for the Hannis T. Bourgeois, LLP Certified Public Accounting and Consulting firm located in Baton Rouge, LA.

Kennedy Space Center, FL – Bob Cabana, Director of Kennedy Space Center executes a SOS during a ceremony to present a Seven Seals Award to one of his employees, Ms. Delores “D” Abraham, protocol specialist for her outstanding support over many years.  Area Committee Member, Herman Garrett and FL Chair, Phillip Speake along with key KSC staff members attended the event.  Mr. Cabana pledged KSC will continue to support the men and women of the National Guard and Reserve.  He is well aware of the roll the National Guard and Reserve play in support of NASA/KSC and they could not accomplish their mission without this support.

Dozens of employers from throughout Rhode Island received a spirited update on the importance of standing behind those who work for them and who are involved in the National Guard and Reserve during the ESGR’s annual meeting and awards luncheon at the Quonset “O” Club in North Kingstown recently.

Just in time for Independence Day, staff members in the Inpatient Pharmacy at MultiCare Allenmore Hospital in Tacoma received the Patriot Award in recognition of their support for a co-worker’s service in the Air National Guard.

BOSTON – If you were at Fenway Park in Boston Thursday, to watch the Red Sox play the Baltimore Orioles you would have witnessed a short simple ceremony that took place on the field before the opening pitch.

Alexandria, Louisiana - The Louisiana Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that Chancellor Manuel and Vice Chancellor Hatfield were honored with Patriot Awards in recognition for extraordinary support of its employee(s) who serve in the Louisiana National Guard and Reserve.  A Statement of Support Certificate was also signed to provide a visible reminder of the LSUA's support of our troops. Along with the thanks of the committee, "My Boss is a Patriot" pins were also presented.

Prescott, Ariz., June 30, 2011 - Dr. Frank Ayers, Executive Vice President and Chief Academic Officer at Embry-Riddle's Prescott campus, received a Patriotic Employer Award from the Arizona Office for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve.
 

Yakima Training Center, WA – The 194th Regional Support Wing, Washington Air National Guard, hosted and organized a Bosslift event.  Twenty-six employers from Western and Central Washington attended a live-fire demonstration by A-10 aircraft employing 500 lb bombs, 2.75 rockets and 30mm cannon.  Many of the employers were accompanied by their Guardsmen. 

NJ ESGR Committee members Jessica Richardson (left) and Donna Clementoni (center) join Stockton College U.S. Marine veterans (left to right)  Angelo Reyes and Luis Rivera Guzman and U.S. Navy active reservist Aaron Longo participate in a 4th of July celebration at the House of Blues FOUNDATION ROOM in Atlantic City, NJ.

Carolyn Adams, Department of Homeland Security, was recognized recently by the Nebraska Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Committee for her outstanding support of Captain Abraham Neth, Nebraska Army National Guard.  Neth, who is currently deployed, nominated Adams for the ESGR Patriotic Employer Award, which was presented by Mr. Keith Brown, Employer Outreach Director.  Also attending the presentation were numerous Army and Air Guard senior leaders who expressed their appreciation to Ms. Adams for her continued support of the National Guard and Reserve.

Lt. Col. Michael Plattenburg, commander of the 1-347th Training Support Battalion, 188th Infantry Brigade, left, and Maj. James Patrick, executive officer, 1-347th, present a Patriot Award to Katie Jones, a state director of Georgia for Pfizer, at the company's Southeastern Regional Headquarters in Atlanta for the outstanding support she and her company have provided to Patrick during his two-year mobilization.

The Arkansas Sheriff’s Association signed a Statement of Support during their Summer Convention at Springdale Arkansas on June 28, 2011. The Association Executive Director, Mr Chuck Lange and the Association President, Sheriff Tim Helder signed the Statement during an Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) address to the Convention by Richard Green, Administrative Support Technician with Arkansas ESGR.

Sturgeon Bay, WI – Dick Vallin, Chair of the Wisconsin Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Committee (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced that Thomas Howells, President of the Wisconsin Motor Carriers Association (WMCA) today signed a Statement of Support for the National Guard and Reserve.  

California Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve  and Employer Partnership of the Armed Forces participated in a Veterans and Military spouses hiring fair and service project at Sony Pictures Studios in Los Angeles California.  ESGR and EPAF were just two of the estimated 200 organizations and employers on hand to focus on and assist efforts to insure the best re-integration and employment of veterans and military families. 

.Lima, Ohio – Randy Gasser, Ombudsman Director, Ohio Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, announced the Veterans Employment and Education Initiative, which will be held on Thursday, August 18, 2011.  The event will be held at the Veterans Memorial Civic and Convention Center, Lima, Ohio.  
 

Glendale, AZ. The words of 1Lt. Mathew Moody from Utah Army National Guard says it all: “Sergeant Kim Dominguez is the sponsor for the Glendale Police Dept who has gratefully taken the responsibility to aid the multi-role employees who serve in the Utah Army National Guard".

San Francisco, CA – Mr. James Rebholz, National Chair of Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, announced that Mr. John Stumpf, Chairman and CEO of Wells Fargo & Company, signed a Statement of Support for the Guard and Reserve on July 6, 2011 at the Wells Fargo Corporate Office in San Francisco, California.   

Dr. Eric Pierson, Neurological and Spinal Surgery, was recently surprised with a presentation of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Patriotic Employer Award.  

Credit Union Goes "Above and Beyond"

(Roanoke, VA) – The Virginia Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense agency, held its annual awards ceremony on Saturday, June 4, 2011.  The Adjutant General of Virginia, MG Daniel E. Long, Jr., spoke about the relationship between the Guard and Reserve and civilian employers, and Ms. Louise Kadiri read a statement from Senator Mark Warner.  “The military is not just a job.  It’s a way of life, and employers are part of it,” Long stated. 

ARLINGTON, Va. - Today, July 6th, marks the last day for employers to provide survey responses.  The Department of Defense is encouraging employers in receipt of the 2011 DoD National Survey of Employers to provide responses by the July 6 deadline.  As America celebrates its independence won by the first citizen warriors 235 years ago, today’s citizen warriors rely on supportive employers to maintain our freedoms.  (PHOTO copyright Capitol Concerts)

Oshkosh WI – Dick Vallin, Chairman of the Wisconsin Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Committee (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced that Dave Williams, President of the Metal Service Center Institute (MSCI), Wisconsin Chapter,  recently signed a Statement of Support for the National Guard and Reserve on behalf of  Wisconsin Chapter members. He added that Mr. Williams will urge members of his trade association to also participate in the program.
 

One week remains for employers to share impact of Guard and Reserve service on workforce.