KEESLER AIR FORCE BASE, Miss. -- The 403rd Wing Employer Appreciation Day is Nov. 5 and the deadline for reservists to nominate their employers is Sept. 23.
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.
403rd Wing Commander Col. Frank L. Amodeo encourages wing members to nominate their employers to give them the opportunity to learn about the mission of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, Air Force Reserve and 403rd Wing.
The 403rd Wing is one of many Reserve and National Guard units that in total comprise 38 percent of the nation’s available military manpower, according to the U.S. Department of Defense. This means reservists and guardsmen spend more time away from the workplace defending the nation and training to maintain their mission readiness.
"Employer support is critical,” said Amodeo. "We cannot accomplish the mission without their support. Employer Appreciation Day is a great opportunity to bring employers to Keesler Air Force Base, experience a Unit Training Assembly, and show them what we do to defend freedom and protect the homeland."
Employers will get the opportunity to fly on a C-130J, learn about the tactical airlift, weather reconnaissance, aeromedical evacuation, maintenance and mission support missions as well as process through a deployment line. Additionally, employers will meet ESGR representatives and learn about the organization that aims to gain and maintain employer support. This organization also promotes understanding between reservists and employers by educating them on the laws and assisting with the resolution of conflicts from an employee's military commitment.
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.