Reservists can nominate their employers for Freedom Award

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WASHINGTON --  Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, 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 Guardsmen, 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.

About ESGR and the Freedom Award:
ESGR is a Department of Defense office that develops and promotes supportive work environments for service members in the Reserve Components through outreach, recognition, and educational opportunities. We encourage the employment of Guardsmen and Reservists, who bring integrity, global perspective and proven leadership to the civilian workforce. On behalf of the Secretary of Defense, ESGR runs the annual Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award program. The Freedom Award has been presented to 205 employers since it began in 1996.