Fiocchi of America was honored by Department of Defense for Extraordinary Support of Employees who Serve in the National Guard and Reserves

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an office of the Department of Defense, announced today that James King, Production Supervisor, Fiocchi, Ozark, Mo. was awarded the “Patriot Award”.  He was recognized for his extraordinary support of its employees and family members of those that serve in the National Guard and Reserve. Specialist Jesse Jeffrey, 1241st Transportation Company, Monett, Mo., Missouri Army National Guard, nominated him for this prestigious award. SPC Jeffrey is currently deployed.

The award ceremony was conducted at 11:30 a.m. on June 22, 2023 at the Roy Blunt building at 5141 W. Cargo Road, Springfield, Mo. 65803.  This is the newly finished AVCRAD Missouri Army National Guard aircraft maintenance facility.  Col. (Ret.) Steve Vanderhoof, Missouri ESGR Area 4 Chair, gave remarks explaining the importance of providing jobs and employer support for Guard and Reserve members. Tom Krahenbuhl, State Chair, Missouri Committee, ESGR,  presented the award. 

This event was conducted during an ESGR employer appreciation luncheon and Bosslift. The event was a joint venture of the ESGR, Vietnam Helicopter Pilot’s Assoc. (VHPA), and the Ozark Empire Military Officers Assoc. of America (OEMOAA). The Missouri National Guard hosted the event and provided a tour of the facility and the UH-60 Blackhawk helicopter rides for those in attendance.  Nearly one hundred people attended the event.

 The nominators expect these prestigious awards to be presented in a formal venue to express their gratitude for the support they receive from their civilian employers.

According to Mr. Tom Krahenburl, 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 nation's call to serve. Supportive supervisors are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation's National Guard and Reserve units."

As the 1.3 million members of the National Guard and Reserve continue to perform an increasing number of unique missions with America's borders and beyond, ESGR will continue to be the resource for the employers of citizen warriors. ESGR advocates relevant initiatives, recognizes outstanding support, increases awareness of applicable laws, and resolves conflict between employers and service members. More information about ESGR Employer Outreach Programs and volunteer opportunities is available at www.esgr.mil, or by calling (Steven Brothers at 573-638-9525).