JACKSON- The Mississippi Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced today State Auditor Stacey Pickering was honored with a Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of its employee(s) who serve in the Mississippi National Guard and Reserve.

According to Derwood Boyles ESGR Mississippi Chair, “The Patriot Award was created by ESGR to publicly recognize individuals who provide outstanding patriotic support and cooperation to their employees, who like the citizen warriors before them, have answered their nation’s call to serve.  State Auditor Pickering was nominated for being highly supportive of the Naval Reserve Service by Eduardo Martinez, Reserve component employee.  Supportive supervisors are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s National Guard and Reserve units.”

“It is both an honor and a privilege to accept the Patriot Award today on behalf of the employees in the State Auditor’s Office,” said State Auditor Stacey Pickering. “I am committed to providing a work environment for our employees in the State Auditor’s Office that not only supports their service to our Country but also provides a workplace that encourages their service.”

As the 1.3 million members of the National Guard and Reserve continue to perform an increasing number of unique missions with America’s borders and beyond, ESGR will continue to be the resource for the employers of citizen warriors. ESGR provides education, consultation, and if necessary mediation for employers of Guard and Reserve employees.  More information about ESGR Employer Outreach Programs and volunteer opportunities is available at www.esgr.mil, or by calling Jackie Sharp, Program Support Specialist with MS ESGR @ 601-313-6508 or 601-720-3843

National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve
1555 Wilson Blvd., Suite 319, Arlington, VA 22209
800-336-4590  www.esgr.mil

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