Ceremony Offers Show of Support for GSA Associates Serving in National Guard, Reserves

Posted July 20, 2005

In a special show of support for GSA associates called to service, Stephen A. Perry of the U.S. General Services Administration today signed a Statement of Support with the National Committee for Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve (NCESGR).

“The men and women of the National Guard and Reserve are committed to the welfare and protection of our country,” said Administrator Perry.  “As they support us, we support their outstanding efforts to protect our freedom and way of life.”

The Statement of Support, which awards 5-star recognition from the NCESGR, an agency of the Department of Defense, further confirms the GSA’s commitment to the men and women of the National Guard and Reserve and promises to safeguard job positions; support continuation of medical and dental benefits for family members; grant leaves of absence for military service without penalty of loss of vacation time to the extent allowed under applicable laws; and provide fair and equal employment and career opportunities within GSA.

NCESGR’s “Star” system acknowledges employer support of employee service in the National Guard and Reserve. The 5-Star classification is its highest rating.

"GSA is joining a growing number of federal agencies, Fortune 500 companies, and thousands of American employers across this great nation who have pledged support for our troops," said Bobby G. Hollingsworth, NCESGR Executive Director. "It sends a clear message to Guardsmen and Reservists that while they're serving their country, they do not have to worry about their civilian jobs."

During the ceremony, GSA’s Southeast-Sunbelt Region was honored with the “Caring Award” by Administrator Perry for its GSA Call-up Assistance and Real Expressions of Support (C.A.R.E.S.) program.  Through the program, GSA Southeast-Sunbelt Region associates actively express their support and gratitude to associates called-up to active military service.

“GSA C.A.R.E.S is a tangible way for GSA associates to demonstrate in their own personal way that we care – and care deeply,” said Dennis Dorsey, who accepted the award on behalf of the Region. Dorsey is Senior Advisor to Southeast-Sunbelt Regional Administrator Ed Fielder, currently serving as GSA’s Acting Chief of Staff. Mr. Fielder retired from active duty as a lieutenant colonel with the U.S. Marine Corps in 1997.        

Participating in the ceremony via video conference call at GSA Regional Headquarters in Atlanta, Georgia was Susan Beers, wife of Staff Sgt. Randall Beers.  Beers is a GSA associate from the Southeast-Sunbelt Region currently serving on active duty with the Army National Guard in Iraq.