News
Metro Honored by U.S. Department of Defense for Extraordinary Support of Employees who Serve in the Missouri National Guard and Reserve
Dianne Williams
Director of Communications
314-982-1440
The Missouri Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the U.S. Department of Defense, will announce tomorrow that John M. Nations, President & CEO of Metro, will receive the Patriot Award in recognition of extraordinary support of Metro employees who serve in the Missouri National Guard and Reserve.
According to Brig. Gen. Edmund T. Beckette, ESGR Missouri Chair, “The Patriot Award was created by ESGR to publicly recognize individuals who provide outstanding patriotic support and cooperation to their employees, who like the citizen warriors before them, have answered their country’s call to serve.” Reserve Component employee Staff Sargeant (SSGT) Chad Schmidt, a Purple Heart and Bronze Star recipient, and other Metro veterans nominated Nations for being highly supportive of the National Guard and Reserve. Support by employers is critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s National Guard and Reserve units.
Missouri State Senator Brian Nieves and State Representative Paul Curtman are instrumental in assisting veterans. “We are honored to serve our fellow veterans and defend their liberty,” stated Nieves and Curtman. They also referred to Thomas Jefferson’s quote when commending Nations: “the price of freedom is eternal vigilance.”
“We appreciate all Metro employees and recognize that they not only serve our customers at Metro, but also volunteer in their communities. We are glad we are able to accommodate those who serve in the National Guard and Reserve, and we are grateful for their contribution to our country,” said Nations.
As the 1.3 million members of the National Guard and Reserve continue to perform an increasing number of unique missions within America’s borders and beyond, ESGR will continue to be the resource for the employers of citizen warriors. ESGR recognizes outstanding support, increases awareness of the law, and resolves conflict through mediation. More information about ESGR Employer Outreach Programs and volunteer opportunities is available at www.esgr.mil, or by calling 800-336-4590.