News Releases for March 2002
March 13, 2002
For further information, please contact Chief Warrant Officer Margaret Birney (701) 333-2059
Governor Hoeven Signs Statement Of Support For The Employer Support Of The Guard And Reserve
BISMARCK, N.D. - The National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today that North Dakota Governor John Hoeven signed a Statement of Support to encourage North Dakota employers to support their Guard and Reserve employees. Governor Hoeven signed the Statement during the North Dakota National Guard
State Officer and Enlisted Association meeting in Bismarck, Saturday, March 9th.
Since the terrorist attacks on the United States, the onset of "Operation Enduring Freedom," and the activation of thousands of National Guard and Reserve troops, employers are playing a critical role in national defense. One way in which employers can publicly demonstrate their support for their National Guard and Reserve employees is by signing a Statement of Support. Recent governors that have signed the Statement include Governor Tony Knowles from Alaska, John Ellis "Jeb" Bush from Florida, and Jane Swift from Massachusetts.
Approximately 4,812 North Dakota residents serve in the National Guard and Reserve. Nationwide, 1.3 million Americans serve in the Reserve Forces - Army Reserve, Army National Guard, Navy Reserve, Marine Corps Reserve, Coast Guard Reserve, Air Force Reserve, Air Guard - and make up more than half the national defense strength.
According to Bobby G. Hollingsworth, Executive Director for the National Committee for ESGR, "We are asking employers to go out of their way for their employees who serve by signing a Statement of Support. A Statement of Support serves two very vital functions: First of all, it demonstrates the strong level of support for our Guard and Reserve which is important during this critical time, and secondly, it sends a clear message to the service members that while they're serving their country, they do not have to worry about their civilian jobs."
"Governor Hoeven has taken the lead by demonstrating North Dakota's commitment to our Reserve Forces and to winning the war on terrorism," Hollingsworth added. "By encouraging North Dakota businesses to sign Statements of Support, Governor Hoeven is making a valuable contribution to the quality of life of North Dakota's Guardsmen and Reservists and to our national defense effort."
ESGR is a Department of Defense agency established in 1972 to promote understanding and support among employers of employees who serve as members of the National Guard and Reserve. As the 1.3 million members of the National Guard and Reserve continue to perform an increasing number of unique missions within America's borders and beyond, ESGR will continue as the contact agency for questions and information regarding programs that support the relationship between civilian employers and their employees that serve in the Guard and Reserve.
While it can be a challenge for some small, medium, and even large businesses to adapt to an employee being called for service, it is important that service members know their employers are behind them 100%. Employers who fully understand their rights and responsibilities are in the best position to offer that support. Employers who have questions or would like to sign the Statement of Support can call the toll-free number at (800) 336-4590 or visit ESGR's Website at www.esgr.org.
The North Dakota Committee for ESGR is comprised of 55 volunteers located throughout the State. For local contacts in North Dakota, visit the State Website at www.guard.bismarck.nd.us
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