The following comes from a press release from the U.S. Department of Defense’s organization Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve.
The Washington Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR,) an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that Pete Stemmermann, Technical Operations Supervisor, Comcast, was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support his employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve.
According to Marjorie James, ESGR Employer Outreach Coordinator, “The Patriot Award was created by ESGR to publicly recognize individuals who provide outstanding patriotic support to their employees who have answered the nation’s call to serve. ESGR presents a Patriot Award on behalf of an employee who requests that this honor be awarded to his or her manager or supervisor. Supportive employers are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s National Guard and Reserve units.”
Mr. Stemmermann was nominated for the Patriot Award by his employee, Specialist Mathew G. Ellison, a member of the US Army Reserves. Specialist Ellison said of his employer, “My supervisor, Mr. Stemmermann, is flexible with my work schedule, allowing me time to prepare for my deployment. My company, Comcast, continues my employee benefits throughout my deployment.”
As the 1.3 million members of the National Guard and Reserve continue to perform an increasing number of unique missions within America’s borders and beyond, ESGR will continue to be a primary resource for their employers. ESGR provides education, consultation, and if necessary mediation for employers who have concerns about USERRA (the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994.) USERRA protects the employment rights of Guard and Reserve forces nationwide. For more information about ESGR Employer Outreach Programs and volunteer opportunities, please visit www.esgr.mil or call the State office at 877-306-1971.
We chatted with both Spec. Ellison and Pete after the plaque presentation; here’s what they had to say about military service and employer support:
[youtube http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sJWVCqWPneg&w=560&h=315]
