OWATONNA, Minn. – U.S. Army Reserve Spc. Travis Townsend, 327 Engineer Company, Onalaska, is presenting the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Patriot Award to his employment supervisor, Darlene Jennings of Federated Insurance.

The award was given Nov. 16 at the Federated Insurance office in recognition of Darlene’s support of her employee's service to the United States Army Reserves. Travis was very appreciative of Darlene’s support and assistance with his service and his Army Reserves deployment and wanted to honor Darlene.

Travis stated that he wanted to celebrate Darlene’s professionalism, patriotism, and dedication to supporting service members nationwide. He appreciates her support, and ongoing flexibility. Being a soldier in the United States Army Reserves sometimes requires him to report for duty with little to no notice, and he always receives Darlene’s unwavering support. Not only is she flexible with his schedule, but she takes an active interest in his service. She frequently asks him about his duties, his time overseas, and about some of his military experiences.

Also present was Paul Ragatz, 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 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.

Photo left to right: Paul Ragatz ESGR, Darlene Jennings, Spc. Travis Townsend.

(Photo courtesy of Paul Ragatz)