Contributed by David Curtis, Public Affairs Director, California ESGR
The partnership between civilian employers and the men and women serving in the National Guard and Reserve is vital to national defense. At the heart of this connection stands Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense office providing immense value to both businesses and service members.
For employers, ESGR facilitates access to a workforce trained in leadership, technical expertise, and crisis management. ESGR provides clear guidance on the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA), helping organizations navigate deployment schedules smoothly. Through programs like “Bosslifts” and awards like the Patriot Award, employers gain both operational insights and recognition for supporting military personnel.
For Guard and Reserve members, ESGR offers job security and peace of mind. Balancing civilian careers with military duty often presents scheduling and workplace challenges. ESGR educates service members on their rights under USERRA and provides a nationwide network of volunteer ombudsmen to resolve workplace misunderstandings informally. By enabling service members to nominate supportive bosses for recognition, ESGR strengthens workplace relationships.
Ultimately, ESGR transforms potential friction into a strategic partnership, ensuring businesses retain world-class talent while service members defend the nation with confidence in their career stability.
CAESGR Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/esgrcalif