Bush Salutes Employer Support of Guardsmen, Reservists

By Gerry J. Gilmore
American Forces Press Service

Aug. 31, 2007 - President Bush yesterday signed a federal proclamation declaring Sept. 9-15 as National Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Week for 2007. The Defense Department will honor 15 employers of Guardsmen and reservists in a Sept. 12 ceremony here. They'll receive the Secretary of Defense Freedom Award for the support they've given to their citizen-warrior employees.

"During National Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Week, we recognize the vital contributions of the brave men and women who serve our great nation, and we pay tribute to the employers who support them," the commander in chief of the U.S. armed forces stated in the proclamation.

The courageous men and women in the reserve components deployed overseas "are fighting a new and unprecedented war, having answered the call to defend our freedom and way of life," Bush stated. "At home, the National Guard is working to protect our borders, and provide vital aid and assistance in times of crisis and natural disasters."

Members of the National Guard and reserves represent "the best of America," Bush said. All Americans, he said, are "proud to stand behind the men and women of the National Guard and Reserve."

Bush also saluted "the sacrifice of employers across our country, who support the important mission of our National Guard and reserve personnel." Employers support their employees in the Guard or reserves by providing time off, pay, health care benefits and job security, he said.

Supportive employers also assist employees in the Guard or reserves by helping them to return to their families and civilian life after military missions, the president said.

"The commitment of our nation's employers is a vital and integral part of the success of our armed forces," Bush asserted.

National Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Week reflects America's "deepest gratitude to the dedicated men and women of the National Guard and Reserve and to the employers who support them in their important service to our nation," Bush said.

Bush called upon state and local officials, private organizations, businesses, and all military commanders to observe the week with appropriate ceremonies and activities.