ROCHESTER, Minn. – U.S. Navy Reserve Lt. Stacy Parker is presenting the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Patriot Award to her employment supervisor Karl Bjellum, a nurse manager within Surgical Services at Mayo Clinic in Rochester.

Parker said in her nomination, “Mr. Bjellum has been instrumental in supporting our Military personnel within Surgical Services, whether it be nurses, surgical techs, or surgeons. He also assisted with my efforts to recognize our service members past or present through our first Veterans Day celebration. He provided memorabilia from prior service to display. For most of the staff it was they’re first time opportunity to see anything related to the military up close and personal.”

Other staff in attendance were Amber Wirkus Surgical Services Administration and Amy Storsveen, Nurse Administrator Surgery.

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 calibrates 51 years of excellence in support of the Reserve Components and their civilian employment. For more information about ESGR outreach programs or volunteer opportunities, call (800)336-4590 or visit www.ESGR.mil/MN.

Photo left to right: U.S. Navy Reserve Lt. Stacy Parker, Karl Bjellum, ESGR Volunteer Jim Kelzenberg.