ALEXANDRIA, Minn. – Minnesota Army National Guard Spc. Slavik Laumeyer presented the Employer Support of the Guards and Reserve (ESGR) Patriot Award to his Supervisor Hayden Hanson of Force America Feb 28 in Alexandria.

The award was given to Hayden Hanson in support of his employee’s service to the Minnesota Army National Guard. Laumeyer said that Hanson has been his mentor and a friend for some time. He stated that Hanson understands his duty to serve, and the National Guard has to come first before his full time job when orders for State Active Duty comes up. There were also 15 other employees as well there for the presentation. Also present was Doug Broich who is the ESGR Region 3 Chair.

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/mn.

In addition to presenting the Patriot Award, John Rick, General Manager of Force America signed an Employer Support of Guard and Reserve Statement of Support, confirming that the Force America joins other employers in pledging they fully recognize, honor and comply with the Uniformed Services Employment and Re-Employment Rights Act (USERRA).

Picture Left to Right: Doug Broich ESGR, Hayden Hanson and Spc. Slavik Laumeyer