MARSHALL, Minn. – Lt. Col. Kelly Wasberg of the Minnesota Army National Guard presented the Employer Support of the Guards and Reserve (ESGR) Patriot Award to his supervisor Beringia Zen of Avera Regional Medical Center March 1.

The award was given to Beringia Zen for her support of her employee’s service to the Minnesota Army National Guard. Lt. Col. Wasberg stated that Avera Regional Medical Center has been expressly supportive of his role as an Army Chaplain in the Minnesota Army National Guard. She has been very supportive and flexible when I was called up for two State Active Duty mobilizations. He is grateful for the way she continues to accommodate the demands of his dual calling. There were also 7 other employees present as well 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 51 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, Beringia Zen signed an Employer Support of Guard and Reserve Statement of Support, confirming that the Avera Regional Medical Center 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: Melissa Maranell, Mary Swanson, Lt. Col. Wasberg, Beringia Zen, and Doug Broich ESGR