For Immediate Release                                Date:
                                                                       Contact: ESGR Public Affairs

                                                                                        OSD.ESGR-PA@mail.mil

ALEXANDRIA, Va. – U.S. Navy Captain Darren Bess assumed the duties of Executive Director of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) on October 30, 2024, marking a critical leadership transition for the organization that plays a vital role in the National Defense Strategy.

In this role, Bess will lead the organization’s 2,400-member staff of military, civilian, and volunteer employees in executing the Department of Defense’s responsibilities under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act.  ESGR operates through a network of 54 committees located in all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam-CNMI, Puerto Rico, and the United States Virgin Islands. 

Established by the Department of Defense in 1972 to support the transition to an All-Volunteer Force, ESGR is instrumental in fostering a Total Force that seamlessly integrates National Guard and Reserve Components with active-duty forces. By promoting supportive work environments and resolving conflicts between Service members and their employers, ESGR enables over 770,000 National Guard and Reserve Component Service members to balance their military and civilian careers. 

“It is a privilege to lead the outstanding people that make up ESGR,” said Bess. “Our mission is critical to the future fight and advancing the priorities of the National Defense Strategy.  I look forward to building upon the organization’s excellent legacy and supporting our All-Volunteer Force.”

As part of the Total Force, the National Guard and Reserve play crucial roles in supporting America’s defense, providing a strong and flexible force that is routinely called upon in times of need, both domestically and abroad.

A Naval Academy graduate, Bess was commissioned in 2001. He brings extensive operational experience to the role, having served as a Navy pilot and held staff assignments at the Pentagon. Most recently, he served as the branch head for Reserve Warfare requirements, leading the Planning, Programing, Budgeting, and Execution of the Navy Reserve's $20B Future Years Defense Program.

For more information about ESGR and its programs or volunteer opportunities visit www.ESGR.mil