ST. PAUL, Minn. – Seventeen supportive employers participated in an ESGR Bosslift from Holman Field – Army National Guard Aviation Support Facility in St. Paul Sept. 16. The employers represented a wide range of companies, from some of the largest in the world or their fields (Cargill, 3M, Medtronic, Securian) to government (Transportation Security Administration, Minneapolis Fire Department) to local small businesses (Twin Cities Trapeze) and many in between.

Each had been previously recognized by their Reserve Component employees and Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve with a Patriotic Employer Award, and the Bosslift flight was further recognition of their support.

The 2nd General Support Aviation Battalion out of St. Cloud flew the Chinook mission that took the participants south and west of the Minneapolis/St Paul area on a beautiful afternoon flight. Once back on the ground, members of 2-147th Assault Helicopter Battalion gave the employers a chance to jump in a Blackhawk helicopter in the maintenance bay, experience Night Vision Goggles, and learn about Army Aviation, the Minnesota National Guard’s recent missions and needs, and the contributions of Reserve and Guard members to those missions.

ESGR is a Department of Defense program 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.

The attached photo is courtesy of Christie Nixon, ESGR Volunteer. Employers enjoying the Chinook flight on Sep 16, 2022.