CAGUAS, Puerto Rico – The Four Points Hotel in Caguas was the setting for the Annual Performance Appraisal Meeting (APAM 2024), organized by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve of Puerto Rico (ESGR-PR) program Sept. 20.

The purpose of this event was to pay tribute and thank employers for their commitment to supporting members of the National Guard and Reserve, making it easier for them to serve our country without worrying about their jobs or families. The evening, full of emotion and recognition, included the presentation of prestigious awards such as the Seven Seals Award, which highlights the exceptional commitment of employers to their reservist employees, and the Above and Beyond Award, given to those who have demonstrated outstanding support to the military community.

The highlight of the evening was the awarding of the highest award, the Pro-Patria Award, given to San Francisco Hospital in recognition of its firm commitment to Reservists. Mr. Domingo Cruz Vivaldi, Vice President of Metro Pavia-PR and Ms. Sachairy Rosado accepted the award on behalf of the institution.

The event also included the distinguished presence of 1st Lt. Brooke Carnahan, from the West Point Admissions Department, and Mr. Israel Romero, who was awarded the Seven Seals Award for his commitment to the ESGR-PR. Likewise, the work of Mr. José Rivera, who concluded his term as president of the ESGR-PR, and Brig. Gen. Carlos E. Torres Fevus, commander of the Land Command of the Puerto Rico National Guard, who served as the main speaker, was recognized.

Another highlight was the signing of the ESGR Statement of Support, in which the employers reaffirmed their commitment to continue working closely with the ESGR-PR to ensure that members of the National Guard and Reserve receive the necessary support to fulfill their service to the country.

This meeting, which brought together employers, volunteers and community leaders, underlined the importance of the alliance between the private sector, the government and the Armed Forces, demonstrating once again the unconditional support for those who defend the freedom and security of our nation.

ESGR, a Department of Defense office, seeks to foster a culture in which all employers support and value the employment and military service of members of the National Guard and Reserve in the United States. ESGR facilitates and promotes a cooperative culture of employer support for National Guard and Reserve service by developing and advocating mutually beneficial initiatives, recognizing outstanding employer support, increasing awareness of applicable laws and policies, resolving potential conflicts between employers and their service members, and acting as the employers’ principal advocate within DoD. Paramount to ESGR's mission is encouraging employment of Guardsmen and Reservists who bring integrity, global perspective and proven leadership to the civilian workforce.

For more information about ESGR Outreach Programs, or ESGR volunteer opportunities, please call 1-800-336-4590 or visit www.ESGR.mil/PR.