Ohio ESGR honors employers

  • Published
  • By Maj. Cynthia Harris
  • 445th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Ohio --  Employers of reservists throughout the state of Ohio were recognized at an Ohio Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Awards Banquet, June 5, in Columbus, Ohio.

More than 200 people attended to event to honor 25 companies, agencies and organizations that support Reservists in the state. Among the recipients of the award were employers of two 445th Airlift Wing members.

CareSource, the Pond Family Medical Center, and 23 other organizations were awarded the State Chair Above and Beyond Award for their support of Reservists and Guardsmen.
"This award is given in limited numbers by state and territory ESGR committees. It recognizes employers at the state and local level who have gone "Above and Beyond" the legal requirements for granting leave and providing support for military duty by their employees as defined by the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act, according to Anthony Augello, executive director of the Ohio ESGR.

Staff Sgt. Patrick Smith, 87th Aerial Port Squadron, nominated his employer CareSource. CareSource was recognized for having an established written policy to provide employees pay differential while deployed and on other military leaves of absence. The company continues the family's medical and dental benefits, as well as their life and accidental death benefits.

The Pond Family Medical Center was nominated by the Ohio ESGR Central Region Committee. The center was noted for giving hiring preference to military members and their spouses. Drs. David and Allison Pond have treated numerous reservists and their families who have lost their TRICARE coverage, or who have no medical insurance at no charge. Maj David Pond is a member of the 89th Airlift Squadron.

Without employers, our ranks would be depleted. Employers are relied upon more today than any other time in history, said Maj. Gen. Matthew Kambic, Assistant Adjutant General, Army Joint Force Headquarters, Ohio, Ohio Army National Guard, during his keynote address.