AVOKA, Minn. – U.S. Army Reserve Staff Sgt. Michael Koch presented the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Patriot Award to his employment supervisor, Tim Haugen. The award was given recently at Meadowland Farmers Coop in recognition of Haugen’s support of his employee’s service to the Army Reserves.
Mike was very appreciative of Tim’s support and assistance with his service in Army Reserves and wanted to honor Tim. Tim stated that he understands not just when I have to leave for drill but also my family needs.
An employee serving in the National Guard or Military Reserve, or a spouse of a National Guard or Military Reserve member, may nominate individual supervisors for the Patriot Award for support provided directly to the nominating Service member and his or her family. The Patriot Award reflects the efforts made to support citizen warriors through a wide range of measures including flexible schedules, time off prior to an after deployment, caring for families, and granting leaves of absence if needed.
In addition to receiving a Patriot Award Tim Haugen signed an Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Statement of Support, confirming that the company joins other employers in pledging.
Also, present was Clarence Swenson, an ESGR Minnesota Committee member. 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 celebrates over 51 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: Darin Abel, COO of Meadowlands Farmers Coop, Tim Haugen, Staff Sgt. Michael Koch, and Clarence Swenson (ESGR) Volunteer.