Governor Cooper Affirms Support for National Guard and Reserve Employees | Eastern North Carolina Now

    Press Release:

In Ceremony at the State Capitol, Gov. Cooper Signs ESGR Statement of Support

    RALEIGH: Today, Governor Roy Cooper joined leaders from the North Carolina Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) in the State Capitol's Old House Chamber to sign a Statement of Support for the National Guard and Reserve.

    "I'm proud to join employers who appreciate the unmatched leadership and unique skills Guard members, Reservists and veterans bring to the workplace," Gov. Cooper said. "Today, we pledge to do all we can to support members of the Guard and Reserves when they get the call to serve."

    With six major military installations, North Carolina's military population is one of the largest in the United States. Over 20,000 Guard and Reserve members also call North Carolina home.

    The Statement of Support confirms the State of North Carolina joins other employers in pledging:

    Full recognition of and compliance with the Uniformed Services Employment and Re-Employment Rights Act (USERRA);

• Managers and supervisors will have the tools they need to effectively manage employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve;
• Appreciation for the values, leadership and unique skills service members bring to the workforce and will encourage opportunities to hire Guard members, Reservists and Veterans; and
• Continual recognition and support for our country's service members and their families in peace, in crises and in war.

    "Supportive employers like the State of North Carolina are critical to maintaining the readiness and strength of the nation's Guard and Reserve units and allow Guardsmen and Reservists the opportunity to serve our country more effectively and with greater peace of mind," said Craig R. McKinley, ESGR National Chair. "By signing this Statement of Support, the State of North Carolina sends a clear message they stand committed to their military employees and recognize the integrity, global perspective and proven leadership they bring to the workplace."

    ESGR, a Department of Defense office, has worked to develop and maintain employer support for Guard and Reserve service since 1972. ESGR advocates for relevant initiatives, recognizes outstanding support, increases awareness of applicable laws and resolves conflict between service members and employers. Paramount to ESGR's mission is encouraging employers to hire Guardsmen and Reservists, who bring integrity, global perspective and proven leadership to the civilian workforce.

    More information about ESGR Employer Outreach is available at ESGR.mil or by contacting Tom Bullock, NC ESGR Public Affairs Chairman, at 703-859-0603 or tsbullockii@gmail.com.

    Click HERE to download photos from the event.

• Contact: Ford Porter
•     govpress@nc.gov