PLYMOUTH, Minn. – Sgt. Caleb Henderson, Minnesota Army National Guard, presented the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Patriot Award to his employment supervisor, Eric Conti with Legacy Restoration. The award was given April 18 at Legacy Restoration in Plymouth in recognition of Eric Conti’s support of his employee's service for the Minnesota National Guard.

Henderson was very appreciative of Eric Conti’s support and assistance with his military service and Guard deployments and wanted to honor him.

An employee serving in the National Guard or Military Reserve, or the spouse of a National Guard or Military Reserve member, may nominate individual supervisors for the Patriot Award for support provided directly to the nominating Servicemember and his or her family. The Patriot Award reflects the efforts made to support citizen warriors through a wide range of measures including flexible schedules, time off prior to and after deployment, caring for families, and granting leaves of absence if needed.

Henderson wrote, “Eric Conti is an incredible leader with Legacy Restoration. I currently serve with MNARNG in Cottage Grove, MN. Eric has a complete understanding of my military obligations required of my military service. He checks in with me and asks for updates on all aspects of my life, including the military. There has been no negative impact on my career with Legacy Restoration. Eric has previously served in the armed forces, and it has been displayed in the way he goes about his work discipline. Eric has willingly filled in for my work roll when I am on orders. Eric’s unwavering commitment to my success, both in my military and civilian lives, is truly commendable. He consistently goes above and beyond to ensure that I have the necessary resources, flexibility, and understanding to fulfill my Guard duties while excelling in my civilian career. Eric continuous support not only fosters a positive work environment, but also reinforces the value and importance of military service. I believe that Eric’s outstanding efforts and genuine care for my well-being make him a deserving candidate for the Patriot Award.”

In addition to presenting a Patriot Award, Eric Conti signed an Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Statement of Support, confirming that the company joins other employers in pledging:

• We fully recognize, honor, and comply with the Uniformed Services Employment and Re-Employment Rights Act (USERRA).
• We will provide our managers and supervisors with the tools they need to effectively manage employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve.
• We appreciate the values, leadership and unique skills service members bring to the workforce and will encourage opportunities to hire Guardsmen, Reservists and Veterans.
• We will continually recognize and support our country’s service members and their families, in peace, in crises and in war.

Also present was Tom Haugo, an ESGR 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 52 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/mn.

Photo Left to right: Tom Haugo Minnesota ESGR, Erik Conti Legacy Restoration, Sgt. Caleb Henderson.