BROOKINGS – Paul Briseno, Brookings city manager, received the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Patriot Award recently for the extraordinary support he provides his employee, Sgt. Thomas “TJ” Chandler

“The Patriot Award was created by ESGR to publicly recognize individuals who provide outstanding patriotic support and cooperation to their employees who have answered their nation’s call to serve,” said ESGR volunteer Mary De Leeuw. “Supportive supervisors are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s Guard and Reserve units.”

“National Guard and Reserve members bring tremendous skills and capabilities to our workforce, and employer support for their military service is critical to maintaining the strength of our Guard and Reserve units,” said De Leeuw.

“By valuing the military service of their Guard and Reserve employees, employers are directly supporting the readiness and retention of our All-Volunteer Force, and our national defense,” De Leeuw said.

Chandler said that regardless deployment, even on a short notice, Briseno has been very helpful and understanding.

The City of Brookings currently has six active military reserve/guard members.

ESGR is a Department of Defense program that develops and promotes supportive work environments for service members in the National Guard and Reserve through outreach, recognition, and educational opportunities that increase awareness of applicable laws. ESGR also provides assistance in resolving conflicts between Service members and their employers.

For more information about ESGR outreach programs or volunteer opportunities, call 800-336-4590 or visit www.ESGR.mil/SD.