MAPLE GROVE, Minn. – U.S. Navy Reserve Petty Officer 2nd Class Harry Beyan was deployed and was unable to attend the recent presentation of the “Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Patriot Award” to his supervisor, Dereje Getahun of Boston Scientific Corporation. The award was presented by Everett Doolittle, an ESGR Ombudsman.

Beyan sent the following message and asked for it to be read:
“Thank you, everyone, for attending this award ceremony, and I am grateful for that. Thank you to the Boston Scientific Family and Dr. Doolittle for setting this up and making it happen. This award is not just for Dereje alone but rather for the whole team. I couldn't have done this without the support of the SE Maple Grove team, more especially those of you who picked up my workloads.”
Beyan went on to say, “This award is being presented to the direct supervisor/manager who supports their employees through their military career and Dereje has gone above and beyond to help and work with me to balance my workload with that of my military career. Once again, thank you, Dereje for the support, and hope to meet the rest of the team soon. CE2 Beyan, Harry. NCB-25 Delta Company "
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.
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 51 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: Boston Scientific Supervisor Dereje Getahun