SPOKANE, Wash. – Jeff Shinn, chief of police at the Department of Veterans Affairs in Spokane received the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Patriot Award for the support he provides his employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve Components. The award was presented by Paul McNabb, Washington ESGR employer outreach coordinator.
Shinn wavs nominated by Navy Reserve Petty Office 1st class Brandon Wilson, a police officer with DVA. "Jeff fully supports my mission within the Navy Reserve as I complete my final six years before retirement. With multiple extended training events throughout the year and a command-required one-year mobilization every three years, he truly understands the rapidly evolving environment in which we operate,” said Wilson. “Jeff recognizes that there is a bigger picture' outside my crvi/ian career, one which I cannot control. He has demonstrated support and understanding in the sacrifices I make, including the sacrifices for my family, my friends and my country."
“The Patriot Award was created by ESGR to publicly recognize individuals who provide outstanding patriotic support and cooperation to their employees who have answered their nation’s call to serve,” said McNabb. “By valuing the military service of their Guard and Reserve employees, employers are directly supporting the readiness and retention of our All-Volunteer Force, and our national defense.”
Shinn, who previously served with the Oregon National Guard, expressed that he was pleased about receiving the Patriot Award, and supports Wilson’s in his performance with the Navy Reserve.
ESGR is a Department of Defense program 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 50 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/WA.
Pictured: Jeff Shinn (middle), chief of police at the Department of Veterans Affairs in Spokane received the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Patriot Award for the support he provides his employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve Components. The award was presented by Paul McNabb (far left), Washington ESGR employer outreach coordinator. Shinn wavs nominated by Navy Reserve Petty Office 1st class Brandon Wilson (far right), a police officer with DVA.