January 10, 2010

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) -- Today, U.S. Congressman Jason Altmire (PA-04) was presented with the “Above and Beyond Award” by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) organization. Altmire was chosen for this award due to the exemplary support he has provided to Nathan Robinson, a member of his legislative staff in Washington, D.C. who currently serves in the Army Reserves. Altmire was presented with the award at his Aliquippa District Office earlier this morning.

“During my time in Congress, I have worked hard to put policies in place that will strengthen support for our nation’s military reservists,” Altmire said. “I am proud to have a member of the armed forces – and several veterans – on my staff, and I will continue to do everything I can as an employer to support his efforts to serve our country.”

National Guardsmen and reservists currently comprise approximately 48 percent of our nation’s total available military manpower. Altmire has taken a lead role in enacting policies designed to strengthen support for military reservists.  He is the author of the Military Reservist and Veterans Small Business Reauthorization and Opportunity Act (H.R. 4253), which makes it easier for reservists to secure loans that can help them keep their businesses afloat during deployments. This legislation passed with bipartisan support and was signed into law on February 14, 2008.

ESGR is a Department of Defense (DoD) organization established in 1972 to promote cooperation and understanding between Reservists and their civilian employers. Today, ESGR operates through a network of thousands of volunteers nationwide.

You can see a photo of the award presentation by clicking here.