FERGUS FALLS, Minn. – 1st Lt. Aaron Christensen, Army National Guard, presented the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Patriot Award to his employment supervisor,  John Zwiers. The award was given on Nov. 8 at the LB Homes Care in recognition of John’s support of his employee's service to the Minnesota National Guard.

Christensen was very appreciative of John’s support and assistance with his Army National Guard deployments and wanted to honor Mr. John Zwiers.
1LT Christensen mentioned, “Mr. John Zwiers hired me to serve as a Chaplain at the LB Homes Care, where I dedicated five years of service. Throughout this time, I was frequently away for various military commitments, including XCTC, NTC, the Minneapolis riots, and numerous drill weekends. John consistently supported my family and me during these absences. His unwavering support included hiring a part-time chaplain to cover for me while I was away, ensuring minimal catch-up work upon my return. Additionally, John went above and beyond by helping me recharge after training exercises without financial strain. Working under John’s leadership was a blessing for my family and me, as he enabled me to focus wholeheartedly on serving our nation with honor. His support and understanding made a significant difference in our lives, and I am grateful for his exceptional leadership and commitment to those serving in the military.”
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, Mr. John Zwiers 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 Reemployment 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 Ron Lindgren, Minnesota ESGR 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: Ron Lindgren, MN ESGR Volunteer; Mr. John Zwiers, LB Home Care CEO; and 1LT Aaron Christensen, Chaplin (Photo courtesy of Ron Lindgren)