The reserve component of our country's armed forces (the National Guard and Reserve units) has become increasingly important. A significant number of military specialties that are needed in emergencies and time of war have been transferred from the active regular services to the ranks of citizen-soldiers. The Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force, and Coast Guard depend on their reserves to get the job done in crisis situations.
With mobilization more of a possibility--in peace and wartime, America's military needs the support of America's employers more than ever. The men and women of our Guard and Reserve need time to train, to build their skills, and to serve domestically or internationally when called to active duty. Employer understanding and support makes all this possible. America's employers of Guard and Reserve are heroes, just like their dedicated employees.
Tremendous sacrifices are made by members of our military organizations. They are required to spend time away from their families and endure hardships. In time of conflict, these men and women are often in dangerous positions--placing their very lives at risk. Employers also make sacrifices. Under the provisions of federal law, they are required to keep jobs open for their military employees who are called to active duty. Many employers go beyond requirements to provide additional pay and benefits to supplement military compensation and assist the families of absent workers. The costs--financial and otherwise--can be significant.
An agency of the U. S. Department of Defense, the National Committee for Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) educates employers about the provisions of applicable law and provides ombudsman services to mediate disagreements or difficulties between Guard and Reserve members and their employers. ESGR does a fine job of recognizing employers who have provided substantial support for the Guard and Reserve, as well as helping employers better understand the military work of their employees.
The government cannot be expected to do everything that needs to be done. There are limitations in law, funding, and other resources. Employers United for a Stronger America was formed to address some of the unmet needs and opportunities. We are proud to provide these services, and sincerely appreciate the help of corporations, foundations, and individuals who make our work possible.
EUSA is clearly apolitical. We take no political position whatsoever. Our role is to support our men and women who serve both employers and their military organizations to keep our country strong.
Roger Herman
EUSA President
