ROCHESTER, Minn. – Army National Guard Staff Sgt. Jay Faber presented the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Patriot Award to his supervisor and company owner, Brent Buchan at Energy Products and Design.

The award was presented Sept. 19 following a company meeting in recognition of Buchan's continuous support over twenty years. He gives him extra time off when needed to prepare for drills or annual training. He never questions him going to military schools even on very short notice. For example, an advanced leadership course slot opened two weeks before the report date and he said absolutely go. When he deployed the activation order arrived at 3:00 PM. He went to the office and Buchan just said be safe as we need you back here.

This company also shipped to his unit in Afghanistan five large grills, charcoal, sauces, and rubs. This company also offers the 10% military discounts to all veterans on purchases. Buchan also asked if there was anything else they needed throughout the year.

Owner Brent Buchan signed the Statement of Support of the Guard and Reserve and remarked that the company supports all Reserve service members. He supported another reserve employee who recently took a higher position at another company.

ESGR is a Department of Defense office which seeks to foster a culture in which all employers support and value the employment and military service members of the National Guard and Reserve in the United States. For more information about ESGR outreach programs or volunteer opportunities call (800) 336-4590 or visit www.ESGR.mil.

Photo 1 Left to Right: Staff Sgts Jay Faber; Owner of Energy Products and design, Brent Buchan ; and Jim Kelzenberg ESGR Volunteer Region 6 Minnesota. Patriot Award presentation.

Photo 2 Left to Right: Owner Energy Products and Design Brent Buchan signing the Statement of Support of the Guard & Reserve and Jim Kelzenberg ESGR volunteer.