CASS CITY, Mich. - Nick Chippi, Owner of Cass City Oil & Gas signed the ESGR Statement of Support and was awarded the ESGR Patriot Award Jan. 9.

The Statement of Support Program is the cornerstone of ESGR’s effort to gain and maintain employer support for the Guard and Reserve. The intent of the program is to increase employer support by encouraging employers to act as advocates for employee participation in the military. Supportive employers are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the Nation’s Guard and Reserve units.

Chippi was nominated by Sgt. Bryan Bland of the U.S. Army Reserve. He is just returning from deployment where he was assigned to 656th TC in Hobart, Wisconsin. 

Bland stated, "Nick Chippi is a proud supporter of the U.S. military and deserves to be recognized. Over the time I have worked for Nick there have been many cases where I have had to leave on a last-minute basis to serve my obligation with the U.S. Army Reserves. Nick has always been accommodating and flexible with the schedule. Nick also has other veterans working for him and understands the importance of supporting the military and its veterans. Nick is a highly respected member of his community and deserves to be recognized for his hard work, dedication, and support to the U.S. Army and its veterans."

To sign the Statement of Support or nominate your supervisor for the Patriot Award, visit esgr.mil/mi. Presenting the award was ESGR East Area Chair Paul DeSander and ESGR volunteer Mike Ulshafer.