WASHINGTON – President Donald J. Trump signed a proclamation declaring Aug. 18 – 24 as National Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Week.
The week recognizes the essential contributions employers continue to make supporting the military service of their National Guard and Reserve employees.
The president said, "Our great Nation's hard-fought independence was won by citizen warriors united in purpose and possessing an unwavering commitment to liberty. On countless occasions since, our citizen Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, Marines, and Coast Guardsmen have put their civilian lives on hold — leaving behind family, friends, and vocation — to defend freedom and the rights of all Americans. During National Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Week, we salute the many civilian employers who recognize the indispensable role of our all-volunteer force and provide unwavering support to our Nation's defenders.
"The men and women of the National Guard and Reserve make significant contributions to both our thriving economy and our strong national defense. In all facets of the civilian workforce, from small businesses to large corporations, they bring to bear considerable expertise, experience, and professionalism. In uniform, they serve with honor and distinction as they respond to natural disasters and emergencies, train to ensure operational readiness, and deploy in support of critical operations."
Emphasizing the critical support employers provide, the President continued, "I commend employers who hold in high regard our National Guard and Reserve service members and their families, and who provide exemplary cooperation and partnership, often at great financial sacrifice, to Americans who nobly combine military and civilian careers. We extend our gratitude to these employers and to all who willingly serve and sacrifice to defend and preserve our way of life."