Several Employers to be honored by Department of Defense for Extraordinary Support of Employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserves

POINT LOOKOUT, MO. — Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, will recognize multiple employers with awards in recognition of their extraordinary support of employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserves and their families.

The awards presentation ceremony will be conducted during the annual ESGR Awards Banquet on Friday, 6:30 p.m., August 12, 2022. The awards include the “Patriot Award,” the “Above and Beyond,” and the top “Pro Patria Award” and will be presented at the University Plaza, in the John Q room.   Over 40 employers have committed to attend. Tom Krahenbul, State Chair, Missouri Committee, ESGR will officiate the event. The media is invited to cover the invitation-only event.

Dr. Jerry Davis, Chancellor, College of the Ozarks, will be the keynote speaker. College of the Ozarks has previously received numerous awards for their support of the Guard and Reserve members and their families. Those awards include the prestigious Secretary of Defense “Freedom Award.” The Freedom Award is the highest lifetime award given by the government to a civilian employer. They will be receiving the “Extraordinary Support of the Guard and Reserve” at this event for their continued support of the military.

According to Krahenbulh, ESGR Missouri Chair, “The annual awards banquet was created by ESGR to publicly recognize individuals who provide outstanding patriotic support and cooperation to their employees. The awards are state level awards that recognizes the employers that give benefits and support ‘Above and Beyond’ what is required by law. This is viewed as an incentive by the employer for those employees to join and serve in the military. Those employees who like the citizen warriors before them, have answered their nation's call to serve. Supportive supervisors are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation's National Guard and Reserve units."

As the 1.3 million members of the National Guard and Reserve continue to perform an increasing number of unique missions with America’s borders and beyond, ESGR will continue to be the resource for the employers of citizen warriors. ESGR advocates relevant initiatives, recognizes outstanding support, increases awareness of applicable laws, and resolves conflict between employers and service members. More information about ESGR Employer Outreach Programs and volunteer opportunities is available at www.esgr.mil, or by calling (Steve Brothers at 573-638-9625).