WASHINGTON – Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) is pleased to announce Allison Transmission, Inc. has been named one of 30 finalists for the 2021 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award, in recognition of the organization’s support for its National Guard and Reserve employees.
“I am honored to congratulate these 30 outstanding employers, who have distinguished themselves in supporting their Reserve Component employees,” said Mr. Ron Bogle, ESGR’s National Chair. “Employers play a critical role in the readiness and success of our National Guard and Reserve forces, and by valuing and supporting their employees’ military service; they are making a direct contribution to our Nation’s security.”
Allison Transmission, Inc., along with 29 other finalists were selected from 3,382 nominations received from Guardsmen and Reservists highlighting how their civilian employers went far beyond what the federal law requires to support them. The finalists represent large and small employers, as well as public sector organizations. Celebrating its 25th year, the Freedom Award began in 1996 under the auspices of Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve to recognize exceptional employer support, with 295 honorees to date.
Some examples of how Allison Transmission, Inc. supports their military employees include holding an annual Veterans Day luncheon to recognize their service employees; hosting a Military 101 Training Session in partnership with the Indiana National Guard to educate hiring managers about military structure, culture and challenges veterans face when integrating into the workforce; and leading the creation of InVets – Conexus Indiana, which connects discharging veterans from around the country with jobs at Indiana manufacturing and logistic companies.
“Allison Transmission, Inc. has provided unwavering support to me through my five years of employment,” said Major Daniel Taylor, who nominated Allison Transmission, Inc. for the award. “They have always provided me with time off for various exercises, courses, special assignments, and most recently a deployment. Throughout all my missions, Allison Transmission, Inc. has ensured a seamless transition. They continue to provide me with opportunities to advance my career, despite having to be away for extended periods. Allison Transmission, Inc. demonstrates their support through their actions and is an example for other organizations to follow.”
Indiana ESGR State Chair, Mr. Stephen Williams, underscored how important employer support is for our National Guard and Reserve members. “These citizen warriors could not defend and protect us at home and abroad without the continued promise of meaningful civilian employment for themselves and their families,” said Williams. “Recognizing these employers is a key element in furthering employer support, while strengthening relationships between Service members and their employers.”
The 15 employers selected to receive the 2021 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award will be announced early this summer.
For more information about the Freedom Award, visit www.FreedomAward.mil. To learn more about ESGR, visit www.ESGR.mil.
About ESGR
ESGR is a Department of Defense program that develops and promotes supportive work environments for Service members in the Reserve Components through outreach, recognition, and educational opportunities that increase awareness of applicable laws. It also provides assistance in resolving conflicts between Service members and their employers.