NASA Deputy Administrator Signs Statement of Support for the National Guard and Reserve

Arlington, Virginia – Mr. Bob Hollingsworth, Executive Director of the National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the Department of Defense, announced that Mr. Frederick D. Gregory, NASDA Deputy Administrator, signed a Statement of Support for the Guard and Reserve in Washington, DC.

“Today, supportive employers are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s National Guard and Reserve units. I am asking all of America’s employers to review and amended their current human resources policies to ensure compliance with the Uniformed Services Employment and Re-Employment Rights Act Law (USERRA), said Hollingsworth. “This is a significant event not only for NASA, but for all Federal Civil Service Employees. The Federal Government is one of the largest employers of National Guardsmen and Reservists in the country.”

“By signing the Statement of Support, the management of NASA stands proudly with their Guard and Reserve employees, who like the Minute Men before them, continue to answer their nation’s call to defend our way of life. Their personal sacrifices are essential to the strength of our nation,” added Hollingsworth.

“We owe so much to the people who bravely endure the sacrifices necessary to protect liberty and freedom, “ said Gregory. Throughout the agency’s history, NASA has demonstrated a commitment to supporting our dedicated National Guard members and Reservists when they answer the call to duty, and I urge employers across America to renew their commitment to these brave men and women.”

According Hollingsworth, “Today, in support of the war on terrorism and the ongoing operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, an essential alliance has been formed as many of America’s employers have become inextricably linked to our nations defense by sharing their most precious asset, their employees”.

The National Aeronautics and Space Administration is an investment in the future. As explorers, pioneers and innovators, the people of NASA boldly expand frontiers to inspire and serve America and to benefit the quality of life on Earth. Form more than 45 years, NASA has held an unparallel record of accomplishment in science, aeronautics, and space exploration.

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) is a Department of Defense agency established in 1972. The mission of ESGR is to gain and maintain active support from all public and private employers for the men and women of the National Guard and Reserve. ESGR volunteers provide free education, consultation, and if necessary mediation for employers of Guard and Reserve employees.

As the 1.2 million members of the National Guard and Reserve continue to perform an increasing number of unique missions that require extraordinary actions on the part of everyday citizens, ESGR will continue to be the informational agency for the employers of America’s Patriots. More information about ESGR Employer Outreach Programs and volunteer opportunities is available at www.esgr.mil, or by calling the National Committee Office at 800-336-4590.