WASHINGTON - Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve
(ESGR), a Department of Defense office, is now accepting nominations for the 2015
Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. The Freedom Award is the Nation's
highest honor presented to civilian employers for exceptional support of their National
Guard and Reserve employees. ESGR encourages Guard members, Reservists or family
members acting on their behalf, to submit nominations at www.FreedomAward.mil by January 19, 2015.
Guard and Reserve members comprise nearly
one-half of our nation's military force. They provide essential services to maintain
national security and conduct humanitarian efforts at home and abroad. The unwavering
commitment of their employers helps keep our military prepared and our Nation protected.
"Every day, employers large and small
work to ease the burden on those who serve by providing workplace flexibility,
career opportunities and dedicated support," said Paul Mock, ESGR National Chair.
"The Freedom Award is one way we can thank the employers that stand behind
our Guardsmen, Reservists and their families."
A Freedom Award ceremony is held in Washington,
D.C., for up to 15 deserving employers each year. The Freedom Award recognizes
employers who go above and beyond in supporting members of the Guard and
Reserve - from continuing benefits and healthcare during deployments, to
helping with home maintenance and sponsoring veteran hiring initiatives.
Service members can thank employers for their exemplary support by submitting a
Freedom Award nomination today.