FERGUS FALLS, Minn. – Army National Guard 1st Lt. Aaron Christensen, presented the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Patriot Award to his employment supervisor, Patty Roth. The award was given on Sept. 10 at the Lake Region Healthcare in recognition of Roth’s support of her employee's service to the Minnesota National Guard. Christensen was very appreciative of Roth’s support and assistance with his Army National Guard deployments and wanted to honor her.

Christensen mentioned Roth generously hired him as the manager of Spiritual Care just four months before he embarked on a three and a half month military training assignment. Her willingness to hire him so close to his extended absence was a true blessing. Throughout his military training Mrs. Roth consistently checked in on him, demonstrating her sincere support. She provided the necessary time and space for him to transition smoothly upon his return, ensuring he did not come back to an overwhelming workload. His team stepped up admirably to cover responsibilities in his absence. He is deeply grateful for Patty’s exemplary leadership and steadfast commitment to supporting him as he fulfilled his duties in service to our nation. Her leadership has made a significant difference in his ability to serve effectively, and he is honored to nominate her for this recognition.

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.

In addition to receiving a Patriot Award, Mrs. Patty Roth 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 Lois Robinson 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 over 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.

Photo left to right: Lois Robinson, MN ESGR Area Chair volunteer, Mrs. Patty Roth, Supervisor Lake Region Healthcare, and 1st Lieutenant Aaron Christensen (Photo courtesy of Lois Robinson)