MAYAGÜEZ, Puerto Rico – A group of more than 50 Soldiers belonging to the 755th Military Police Company, 92nd Brigade of the Puerto Rico National Guard, are preparing for an upcoming deployment. Before leaving, these brave citizen-soldiers and their families participated in a Yellow Ribbon Program Pre-Mobilization event, held recently at the Holiday Inn in Mayagüez.
The Yellow Ribbon Program is a fundamental initiative of the Department of Defense that demonstrates the commitment of the United States to its men and women in uniform. By offering guidance and support to military personnel and their families, this program contributes to strengthening the resilience and well-being of the entire military community.
The event, organized by the G1 of the Puerto Rico National Guard and hosted by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) of Puerto Rico, aimed to provide guidance to soldiers and their families on the benefits and protections offered by USERRA (Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act).
Puerto Rico ESGR Military Outreach Director Luis Díaz and ESGR volunteer Freddie Zaragoza oversaw explaining to attendees the details of the USERRA, the federal legislation designed to protect the labor rights of members of the armed forces. Soldiers and their families had the opportunity to clarify their doubts on topics such as:
• Medical plans: How to maintain your health coverage during and after deployment.
• Return to work: The rights of soldiers upon returning to their civilian jobs.
• Other benefits: Financial and legal assistance.
According to the event’s cadre of speakers, by participating in the briefing soldiers and their families feel more secure and prepared to face the challenges that come with military deployment. By knowing their rights and the resources available, they will be able to focus on their mission without worrying about issues related to their employment and family well-being.
ESGR, an office of the Department of Defense, seeks to foster a culture in which all employers support and value the employment and military service of National Guard and Reserve members in the United States. ESGR facilitates and promotes a cooperative culture of employer support for National Guard and Reserve service by developing and promoting mutually beneficial initiatives, recognizing outstanding employer support, increasing awareness of applicable laws and policies, resolving potential conflicts between employers and their service members, and serving as the principal employer advocate within the Department of Defense. A fundamental aspect of ESGR's mission is to foster the employment of National Guard and Reserve members who bring integrity, global perspective, and demonstrate leadership to the civilian workforce.
For more information about ESGR outreach programs or volunteer opportunities call (800) 336-4590 or visit www.ESGR.mil/PR.
Photo: Puerto Rico ESGR Military Outreach Director Luis Díaz (left of projector screen) addresses service members during the briefing.