Information for Employers
The
National Guard and Reserve are an integral part of our military. Almost half of
the men and women serving in our armed forces are members of the National Guard
and Reserve.
As an employer, you are vital in enabling your employees who are members of the
National Guard and Reserve to serve our country. Moreover, your active support and
encouragement is critical to their success.
The benefits of supporting your Service member.
Many employers go above and beyond in their support for military employees by providing
benefits and pay while the military employee is activated. To see what some of the
most outstanding employers have done, visit www.FreedomAward.mil
and view the recipients of the Government’s
highest employer award, the Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award.
- Bosslifts: Employers are transported, via military aircraft, to
military facilities where they observe National Guard and Reserve members on duty.
- Briefing with the Boss: Brings together employers, unit commanders,
ESGR volunteers and community leaders to discuss issues related to service in the
National Guard and Reserve.
- Statement of Support Signing Ceremonies: By signing a Statement
of Support for the Guard and Reserve, an employer demonstrates an understanding
of the importance of military service. It also sends a clear message to employees
who serve in the military that they don’t have to worry about their civilian jobs.
Here are some suggestions on how you can support your Service member:
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Learn more about the role of the National Guard and Reserve.
Attend open houses and public functions at local military units. Talk about the
National Guard and Reserve with military and civilian leaders in your community.
Ask your employees what they do and how they fit into the “big picture” of national
defense.
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Get to know your employees’ military commanders and supervisors.
Ask them to provide you with advance notice of your employee’s annual military duty
schedule.
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Put your support in writing by signing a Statement of Support for the National Guard and Reserve.
Show your support and appreciation for all those who serve. Say "Yes, I pledge my support to the National Guard and Reserve Members"
by submitting a Statement of Support Form. If you have already signed a Statement of Support and want to share the news, ESGR has provided
a "Proud Supporter" button to download and showcase on your website:
Smaller buttons can be used on social media sites, company newsletters, etc. Display it
prominently for all your employees and visitors to see.
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Examine your personnel policies to see how they accommodate and support participation
in the National Guard or Reserve.
Do they include provisions for military leave of absence? Do they ensure job opportunities
and benefits equivalent to those of other employees? Your local ESGR Field Committee
is available to answer questions or offer suggestions.
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Encourage employee participation in the National Guard and Reserve.
Recognize and publicize their dedication and commitment to your business and the
nation. Your employees’ service in the National Guard and Reserve enhances their
job performance and value to your organization.
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Seek assistance from ESGR.
Call 1-800-336-4590 to speak with an ombudsman. Ombudsmen serve as confidential,
neutral liaisons for employers and employees who seek assistance or clarification
regarding their rights and responsibilities.
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For more detailed information about specific employment rights and responsibilities
visit our section on
USERRA.
Our website is a great resource for the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment
Rights Act. Don’t hesitate to call your employees’ military commander or supervisor
if you have a question or concern. They face some of the same challenges and know
that it is in everyone’s best interest to work together. Quite often they can offer
alternatives to meet individual needs. By taking a more active role in supporting
the members of the National Guard and Reserve that work for you, you’ll improve
the quality of life for all your employees, you’ll directly enhance the success
of your organization, and you’ll provide an invaluable service to the nation.
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Become an ESGR volunteer!
Many ESGR volunteers are employers just like you. Volunteering with ESGR is a great
way to show your support for your National Guard and Reserve employees while benefiting
other employers. Head to our volunteer page for more
information.