SAUK RAPIDS, Minn. – Minnesota ESGR Committee member Chad Sackett presented the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Above and Beyond Award to Great River Federal Credit Union. The award was given March 6 at the Sauk Rapids Branch for Great River’s support of its military spouse employee while her husband serves with the Minnesota National Guard.

Receiving the award on behalf of Great River Federal Credit Union was Derek Rudolph, Chief Technology Officer, with Shannon Wander, spouse of Sgt. 1st Class Adam Wander, who recommended her supervisor for a Patriot Award while her spouse was deployed with the Minnesota National Guard.

This award is given in limited numbers by ESGR State Committees to employers who have had at least one of their supervisors/managers recognized with a Patriot Award and who have signed an ESGR Statement of Support. Only thirty businesses were selected to receive this award from the hundreds of Patriot Award nominations received in Minnesota honoring their employees’ service in the United States military by providing assistance or benefits that go beyond the minimum required by the Uniformed Services Employment and Re-employment Rights Act.

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 over 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: Sgt. 1st Class Adam Wander, Shannon Wander, Derek Rudolph and Chad Sackett (Photo courtesy of Chad Sackett)