Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Week proclaimed by President

  • Published
Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, a Department of Defense agency, announced President Barack Obama has signed a proclamation declaring Sept. 18-24 National ESGR Week.

In the 10 years of continuous military operations since Sept. 11, 2001, employers across the nation have remained committed to supporting their employees who serve in the military. National ESGR Week is a time to honor those who serve in the Guard and Reserve while giving thanks to their employers, whose support is a critical component of our national defense.

"The United States is at its strongest when we live up to our sacred duty to honor and care for our service members when they come home. The support of employers across our country reflects the best of the American spirit - the understanding that we are bound together to serve and protect our nation,"
said Obama. "I call upon all Americans to join me in expressing our heartfelt thanks to the members of the National Guard and Reserve and their civilian employers."

Nearly half of our military strength resides in the Guard and Reserve. The dedication of employers, who implement personnel policies promoting Guard and Reserve participation, while bearing financial and organizational burdens, allows mission-ready troops to serve when activated. Service members leave homes with the comfort of knowing their families will have much needed support before and after mobilization.

In concert with National ESGR Week, DOD will recognize 15 of the nation's most supportive employers at the Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award ceremony on Sept. 22. The Freedom Award is DOD's highest recognition given to employers for exceptional support of their employees serving in the Guard and Reserve. The 15 employers stood out from a field of
4,049 nominations submitted by Guardsmen and Reservists.

The Presidential Proclamation can be read at: http://1.usa.gov/ESGRProc

About ESGR: Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve is a Department of Defense agency established in 1972 to develop and maintain employer support for Guard and Reserve service. ESGR advocates relevant initiatives, recognizes outstanding support, increases awareness of applicable laws, and resolves conflict between service members and employers. Paramount to ESGR's mission is encouraging employment of Guardsmen and Reservists who bring integrity, global perspective and proven leadership to the civilian workforce.