ST. MICHAEL, Minn. – Staff Sgt. Robert Dickson U.S. Army Reserve is presenting the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Patriot Award to his employment supervisor, Ron Och Dec.1 at the JB Group Office in recognition of Och's support of his employee's service to the Army Reserve.

Dickson was very appreciative of Och's support and assistance with his service deployments and wanted to honor Och.

"Ron Och was nominated for the Patriot award because of his appreciation and willingness to accommodate my Army responsibilities within the scope of my career here at JB. Since I have started, he has been a positive force to helping me first, make the transition from active duty back to the civilian career force. Secondly, supporting me once I returned the Army Reserve through flexibility with my schedule,” said Dickson.

Och added, "Robbie has been with JB for just over one year.  His contributions during this time have been many and significant.  Robbie has helped bring our service members here at JB into the spotlight, and educate and illustrate the many contributions they make both at JB and in the community. Robbie has been a superior advocate of Project Got Your Back, helping JB become actively involved in the program.”

Also present was Bob Adams, an ESGR Ombudsman/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 or visit www.ESGR.mil .

Photo left to right: Bob Adams, Ron Och, Staff Sgt. Robert Dickson (Photo courtesy of Karan Rathburn)