LITCHFIELD, Minn. – Sgt. Marcus Wanha of the Minnesota Army National Guard is presenting the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Patriot Award to his employment supervisor, Craig Diamond.

The award was given on Sept. 14 at the Casey's General Store in Litchfield in recognition of Diamond's support of his employee's service to the Minnesota National Guard.

Wanha stated, "Working for Casey's under Craig Diamond has been a great experience. Never once have I felt like he'd ever use my service in the National Guard against me despite the many hardships it caused for him, especially during COVID and the many activations of 2020/2021. He has been very flexible and always met the needs of my National Guard service without complaint."

Wanha was very appreciative of Diamond's support and assistance with his Guard deployments and wanted to honor him with this Patriot Award.

"I as well Casey's am a very proud supporter of the National Guard and the brave men and women of our military! Marcus has a great work ethic; I believe from being in the military. Always early for his shift, willing to jump in and help, disciplined. So thank you to all who have served and who are currently serving," said Diamond.

Also present was Bob Adams, an ESGR Ombudsman/Minnesota Committee member. 

ESGR is a Department of Defense office which 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. For more information about ESGR outreach programs or volunteer opportunities, call (800) 336-4590 or visit www.ESGR.mil.  

Photo left to right: Sgt. Marcus Wanha, Craig Diamond, Bob Adams Minnesota ESGR. (Photo courtesy of Linda Stelling)