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Washington, DC -- Congressman David Davis recently showed his support for all Tennessee Guard and Reserve members of our Armed forces by becoming the first member of Congress to sign the ‘5 Star’ Statement of Support.
“There is no greater sacrifice made than those of our men and women in uniform,” Congressman David Davis said. “Today, it is critical that we have supportive employers of our Guard and Reserve Forces, since the Guard and Reserve comprise 50% of the total Force. Employer support is vital in maintaining the strength and readiness of our Guard and Reserve units. I ask all Tennessee Employers to review and amend their current human resource policies to ensure compliance with the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Act.
“Many Tennessee employers provide ‘Above and Beyond’ support, such as Tennessee Eastman and Alltel, with pay differential to offset the loss of wages, and extension of healthcare benefits, which complement coverage provided by the military, when their employees are mobilized.”
As a member of the House Small Business Committee, Congressman Davis believes that we must develop innovative measures to support the small business owners who employ our Guard and Reserves.
“When employers support our Guard and Reserve service members, this becomes a ‘Force Multiplier’ to strengthen the country and our National Defense,” Congressman Davis said. “This display of commitment, ‘5-Star’ Statement of Support sends a clear message to those troops that while they are serving their country, they do not have to worry about their civilian job.”
Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) is a Department of Defense Agency established in 1972. The Mission of ESGR is to gain and maintain active support from all public and private employers for the men and women of the National Guard and Reserve. ESGR provides free education, consultation, and if necessary mediation for employers of Guard and Reserve and their employers.
As the 1.2 million members of the National Guard and Reserve continue to perform and increasing number of unique Missions that require extraordinary actions on the part of everyday citizens, ESGR continues to be the informational agency for the employers of America’s new minutemen.
More information about Employer Outreach programs and volunteer opportunities are available at www.esgr.mil.
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