KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- Now is the time for reservists to nominate their employers to attend the 403rd Wing Employer Appreciation Day April 5.
The event, cosponsored by the Mississippi Committee of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, is designed to give employers a taste of what it's like to be a Citizen Airman.
Col. Jaret T. Fish, 403rd Wing deputy commander, encourages wing members to nominate their employers.
"The strength of our Reserve force relies on the strength of the support from our employers," said Fish. "Their commitment to accommodating our reservists’ duties is a crucial part of national defense. Employer Appreciation Day is a great opportunity for reservists to bring their employers to the base and provide them a firsthand look at the remarkable work we do here in support of the mission and our country."
Reservists’ employers will receive a wing mission brief and a C-130J orientation flight. Following the flight, reservists can provide their bosses with a first-hand sampling of their work areas and invite them to the wing picnic at noon.
Fish added that employers will also learn more about ESGR, whose goal is to gain and maintain employer support. This Department of Defense organization was established in 1972 to promote an understanding between reservists and employers by educating them on the laws and assisting with the resolution of conflicts from an employee's military commitment. For more information on ESGR and their programs, visit: https://www.esgr.mil/Employer-Awards/ESGR-Awards-Programs
The deadline to nominate employers is Feb. 9. To nominate an employer, contact the 403rd Wing Public Affairs Office for a nomination form by emailing 403WG.PA2@us.af.mil or calling 302-377-5275.
Additionally, reservists who want to recognize their supportive employers are encouraged to nominate them for the Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award by visiting www.freedomaward.mil and click on the “Nominate Employer” tab. The Freedom Award is the highest honor the Department of Defense gives to employers for supporting National Guard and Reserve employees. The nomination form takes about 15 minutes to complete, and the deadline is Dec. 31.