VIRGINIA, Minn. – Minnesota Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) State Chair Chad Sackett conducted a ESGR Statement of Support signing with U. S. Steel Minnesota Ore Operations on June 27th. The signing was part of the company’s proclamation ceremony on becoming a Minnesota National Guard Beyond the Yellow Ribbon (BTYR) company. Signing for United States Steel Minnesota Ore Operations were Travis Kolari, Plant Manager, and Col. (Retired) Jason Taliaferro, President of the U.S. Steel Veterans Employee Resource Group SERVE.

The Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Statement of Support, confirms that the company joins other employers in pledging:

• We fully recognize, honor, and comply with the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment 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 52 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: Jason Taliaferro, Travis Kolari, Chad Sackett (Photo courtesy of U.S. Steel)