DAWSON, Minn. – The Above and Beyond Award was presented to the Puris Company Jan. 19. This prestigious award was presented on behalf of the Department of Defense by the Minnesota Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Committee.

Accepting the award was Matt Karels, Plant Manager of Puris. This award is given in limited numbers by State Committees to employers who have had at least one of their supervisors/managers recognized with a Patriot Award and who have signed an ESGR Statement of Support.

This award will be given to only 30 businesses this year, from hundreds of Patriot Award nominations received in Minnesota, that have honored their employees’ service un the United States military by providing assistance or benefits that go beyond the minimum required by the Uniformed Services Employment and Re-employment Rights Act (USERRA).

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 from left to right: Clarence Swenson (ESGR) Volunteer, Matt Karels, and Staff Sgt. John Parsons