Reservists encouraged to nominate employers for award Published Nov. 5, 2013 ARLINGTON, Va. -- Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, a Department of Defense agency, has announced the opening of the nomination season for the 2014 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award. National Guard and Reserve members and their families are encouraged to nominate employers who have provided exceptional support of military employees above the federal law requirements. Nominations will be accepted at www.FreedomAward.mil from Nov. 1, 2013 to Jan. 20, 2014. The Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award is the highest recognition given by the U.S. government to employers for outstanding support of their employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve. National Guard and Reserve members and their families are encouraged to begin the process by first nominating their employer for the ESGR Patriot Award. This award is an easy way for the service member to recognize his or her employer's support. Online nominations for the Patriot Award can be completed by going to www.esgr.mil. On the right side of the page, select "Servicemembers, Award Your Employer" and complete the online form and submit. The next step is to complete the Freedom Award nomination at www.FreedomAward.mil. The questions below will determine the type of support the Secretary of Defense seeks to recognize above the requirements of the federal law during periods of military service or long deployments? · Does your employer continue full pay and benefits during your military service? · Does your employer pay the difference between your civilian pay and military pay if your military pay is less? · Does your employer provide continuation of your healthcare benefits during military service? · Does your employer stay in contact with you during long periods of absence for military service? Send you a care package or two? · Does your employer stay in touch with your spouse and family and offer assistance when needed in your absence? For questions regarding the nomination process, please visit www.FreedomAward.mil or contact Mr. Kim Watts, Utah ESGR Committee, at 801-432-4492 or robert.k.watts.ctr@mail.mil.