MINNEAPOLIS – Minnesota ESGR Military Outreach Director Tom Haugo is presenting the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Patriot Award for Sgt. Jacob Bredehoft, who could not be nominated employment supervisor Rachel Tenney, of Arctic Wolf Company, located in Eden Prairie, Minnesota.

This award was presented recently at Tenney's residence in Minneapolis. The award was given to her for her support of Jacob Bredehoft’s service with the Minnesota Army National Guard. His supervisor’s support of unit drill assemblies and annual training deployments was greatly appreciated by Bredehoft and he wanted to honor Tenney.

Sgt. Bredehoft wrote, “I would like to recognize Rachel Tenney for her exceptional support and dedication in assisting me as a Minnesota National Guard member. My manager, Rachel Tenney, is very supportive of my Military service even when I am called on short notice. About 8 months into my employment with Arctic Wolf, I was called for an overseas training mission that caused me to miss a month of work. Rachel worked with me to ensure that my transition to and from service was seamless. She ensured that all company leave requirements were fulfilled and that my team had adequate coverage while I was gone. I was also notified that I will be attending a 14-week Military school in Georgia beginning with the new year. Again, she has ensured that the whole process will be seamless and that all my needs are taken care of. Rachel outwardly recognizes my service to others within the organization. She recently introduced me, during a company event, to the Vice President of my business segment and immediately called out that I was in the Military and recognized me for my accomplishments. My salary and company benefits are continued while I am on Active-Duty orders. With the longer absence approaching, Rachel has ensured that my team will be adequately covered to ensure that work does not stack up in my absence. Rachel also encourages me to take part in the "Military Support Pack" that the company connects with other veterans. Rachel’s unwavering commitment to my success, both in my military and civilian lives, is truly commendable. She consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that I have the necessary resources, flexibility, and understanding to fulfill my Guard duties while excelling in my civilian career. Rachel’s continuous support not only fosters a positive work environment, but also reinforces the value and importance of military service. I believe that Rachel’s outstanding efforts and genuine care for my well-being make her a deserving candidate for the Patriot Award.”

In addition to presenting a Patriot Award, Rachel Tenney signed an Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Statement of Support, confirming that the company joins other employers in pledging:
We fully recognize, honor, and comply with the Uniformed Services Employment and Re-Employment Rights Act (USERRA).

We will provide our managers and supervisors with the tools they need to effectively manage employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve.
We appreciate the values, leadership and unique skills service members bring to the workforce and will encourage opportunities to hire Guardsmen, Reservists and Veterans.

We will continually recognize and support our country’s service members and their families, in peace, in crises and in war.

ESGR is a Department of Defense office 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. This year, ESGR celebrates over 50 years of excellence in support of the Reserve Components and their civilian employers. For more information about ESGR outreach programs or volunteer opportunities, call (800) 336-4590 or visit www.ESGR.mil.
Photo left to right: Tom Haugo Minnesota ESGR, Rachel Tenney.