MINNETONKA, Minn. – Minnesota National Guard Sgt. 1st Class Matthew M. Pantze presented the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Patriot Award to his wife's employment supervisors and their spouses. The award was given June 18 at Refine Wealth Strategies in Minnetonka in recognition of his spouse's supervisors support of his service to the Minnesota National Guard.
Receiving the awards were Dave Kein and his spouse, Melissa; Larwin Kauffman and his spouse, Kristina; and Brian Kelly and his spouse, Carin. Both the supervisors and their spouses helped his wife while he was in training.
Pantze was very appreciative of this support and assistance with his military service and Guard deployments, and he wanted to honor Dave and Melissa, Larwin and Kristina, and Brian and Carin.
An employee serving in the National Guard or Military Reserve, 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.
“This award is for my spouse’s employer. She works for a team of 3 supervisors,” said Pantze. “The support and flexibility they provided to my wife while I was servicing or deployed was truly incredible. I recently spent 3 months TDY for Master Gunner school and never once felt concerned that my wife would struggle with the challenges of single parenting our 3 small children They provided her with time off, the flexibility to work from home, and even passed on congratulations when I passed the course. Refine Wealth Strategies has always been incredibly supportive of my service and their commitment to my family over my most recent absence has compelled me to make this nomination. Dave and Melissa, Larwin and Kristina, and Brian and Carin unwavering commitment to my success, both in my military and civilian lives, is truly commendable.”
Pantze went on to say, “They consistently go 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. Dave and Melissa, Larwin and Kristina, and Brian and Carin continuous support not only fosters a positive work environment, but also reinforces the value and importance of military service. I believe that Dave and Melissa, Larwin and Kristina, and Brian and Carin outstanding efforts and genuine care for my well-being make them a deserving candidate for the Patriot Award.”
In addition to receiving a Patriot Award, Dave and Melissa Klein. Larwin and Kristina Kauffman, and Brian Kelly and Carin signed an Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Statement of Support, confirming that the company joins other employers in pledging:
Also present was Tom Haugo, Minnesota Committee member. ESGR is a Department of Defense program 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 provide assistance in resolving conflicts between Service members and their employers. For more information about ESGR outreach programs or volunteer opportunities, call (800) 336-4590 or visit www.ESGR.mil. Photo 1 left to right: Larwin Kauffman, Dave Klein, SFC Matthew Pantze, Brian Kelly, and Tom Haugo MN ESGR. Photo 2: Refine Wealth Strategies staff present at award ceremony.