NISSWA, Minn. – Minnesota Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) committee member Chad Sackett presented the ESGR Patriot Award on behalf of Staff Sgt. Robert Clement of the Minnesota Army National Guard to his employment supervisor’s, Agnelo Fernandes and Matt Conn. The awards were given recently at Grand View Lodge in recognition of Agnelo and Matt’s support of their employee's service to the Minnesota Army National Guard.

Clement is currently deployed and was unable to attend the presentation, but he was very appreciative of Agnelo and Matt’s support and assistance with his military service and wanted to honor them.

An employee serving in the National Guard or Military Reserve, or the spouse of a National Guard or Military Reserve member, may nominate individual supervisors for the Patriot Award for support provided directly to the nominating Servicemember 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 and after deployment, caring for families, and granting leaves of absence if needed.

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 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: Matt Conn, Chad Sackett ESGR, and Agnelo Fernandes (Photo courtesy of Chad Sackett)