Our Nation has relied heavily on Guard and Reserve Service members since entering continuous operations more than 14 years ago. Employer support enhances retention rates in the Armed Forces and, in the end, strengthens our national security. To recognize employers who support their Guard and Reserve employees, ESGR grants a series of Department of Defense awards.
Many of these awards are progressive in nature, with each building upon the previous. For example, an employer must have had at least one supervisor or other representative honored with a Patriot Award and must have signed a Statement of Support to be eligible for consideration for the Above and Beyond Award.
Recognizing supportive employers is vital to ESGR's mission. ESGR's 54 State Committees actively promote awards as a key element in furthering employer support, while strengthening relationships between service members and employers. These Department of Defense awards honor the sacrifices made by so many employers year after year.