Contact: Chris Gallegos, 202-224-5054

WASHINGTON, D.C. – U.S. Senator Thad Cochran (R-Miss.) today encouraged the nomination of Mississippi employers who have demonstrated exceptional support for members of the National Guard and Reserve.

The Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency within the Department of Defense, is accepting nominations from guardsmen, reservists or family members for the 2013 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. 

“Mississippians serve with distinction in the National Guard and Reserves, and we are grateful for their readiness to serve overseas or at home in times of crisis,” Cochran said.

“The Freedom Award is a chance to show appreciation to the employers and businesses whose support makes National Guard and Reserve service possible. I believe there are numerous employers in Mississippi who are worthy of recognition, and I encourage their nomination for the 2013 Freedom Award,” he said.

Up to 15 employers from around the nation are selected annually to receive the Freedom Award, which is the highest award for civilian employers that support the Guard and Reserve. Recipients are honored at a ceremony in Washington, D.C.

This year, the Crystal Springs United Methodist Church in Crystal Springs, Miss., received a 2012 Freedom Award.  U.S. Army National Guard Captain John Branning nominated the church based on its willingness to continue employing him during his active duty service, despite churches being exempt from the Uniformed Services and Reemployment Rights Act.

Guardsmen, reservists or their family members may submit nominations through Jan. 21, 2013.  Employers from small or large firms (500 employees or more), as well as public sector employers, may be nominated.  According to the ESGR, nominated employers must be the service member’s current employer.

For more information about the ESGR, the Freedom Award and the nomination process, visit:  www.freedomaward.mil.

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