Spokane, Wash. – U.S. Attorney for the Eastern District of Washington Vanessa Waldref was presented with a Patriot Award by Jim Wynne, east area chair for the Washington Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, a Department of Defense office. 

Waldref was nominated by her employee Army Reserve Maj. Alison Gregoire, an assistant US attorney. “Vanessa Waldref has always been completely supportive and has taken extra steps to ensure the success of the missions of both the U.S. Attorney’s office and the military,” said Gregoire.  “The office has three attorneys who also serve in the military, nearly half of the staff. U.S. Attorney Waldref accommodates the three every month for drill weekends and to participate in active duty for training. More than that, she has made sure that her service member attorneys have tools – tablets, phones, and laptops with remote access to ensure that they can continue to complete their work while away pursuant to Reserve duties.”

“One of the missions of ESGR is to recognize those employers of Reserve and National Guard members who provide outstanding, patriotic support. U.S. Attorney Waldref is obviously one of those employers,” said Wynne.

In describing the strength and assets Maj. Gregoire brings to her work, Waldref stated “She is a true leader and plays a critical role in our mission of building stronger and safer communities for everyone. She is a woman of incredible integrity and honor, driven by a mission-first attitude to serve her country and support her colleagues to do their best work and pursue justice.”

ESGR provides education, consultation and, if necessary, mediation for employers of Guard and Reserve members. More information about ESGR’s Employer Outreach programs and volunteer opportunities is available at www.esgr.mil or by calling (800) 366-4590.

Photo (L-R): Jim Wynne, ESGR; Vanessa Waldref, U.S. Attorney, Washington State Eastern District; Army Reserve Maj. Alison Gregoire.