CITY PRESTON, Minn. – Army National Guard Maj. Corinne Haugen is presenting the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Patriot Award to her employment supervisor Judge Matthew Opat. 

Judge Opat received the award Nov. 14 at the Fillmore County Courthouse in recognition of the support of his employee's service to the Minnesota National Guard. 

Haugen was very appreciative of Judge Opat’s support and assistance with her service for Guard deployments and wanted to honor him. Also present was Trish Gathje an ESGR Minnesota Committee member. 

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 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.

Photo left to right: Judge Matthew Opat, Maj. Corinne Haugen (Photo courtesy of Trish Gathje)