Honor

Dave Curtis {SBU Manager}, Me, Greg Black {my employee who is also in the National Guard}, Kim Watts {ESGR rep}

A wonderful thing happened today! The greatest surprise! 

I work as a supervisor, one of my employees, Greg,  is in the National Guard, he's a great guy.

Today, I see Greg carrying a framed certificate, accompanied by an official-looking man in a tweed suit jacket, loitering around the other supervisors' desks. I think, Aww, Greg must have been recognized for his service! I'm a little bummed that they seem to be coordinating a small awards ceremony with the other sups, but whatever--I'll at least tag along and see him be recognized.

Some people are gathered. My boss' boss included.

Imagine my surprise when GREG starts giving a speech, instead of the other guy.

He nominated me for an award, and wrote an essay, and it was given to me, because of what he said about me as an employer.

It says, "Office of the Secretary of Defense and Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve recognize Jessica Montgomery as a Patriotic Employer for contributing to National Security and Protecting Liberty and Freedom by supporting employee participation in America's National guard and Reserve Force."

I feel so incredibly honored. This may be the most meaningful recognition I've ever received.

The greatest honor of all is that Greg took the time to do this for me. I don't feel that I've done anything special to help him be able to participate in the guard. I suddenly feel like I should have been doing much, much more! I do honor and respect him so much for sacrificing to serve our country. His wife and children are so sweet and wonderful, too; I think very highly of their family.

I can't wait to show this to my dad. He taught me to love American history and to be aware of what the country is doing as a whole, what our rights are, and to participate as an active citizen. He is going to be so proud! I feel like this honor reflects upon all that he taught me, and actually honors and respects him.

Another manager here, Clint Grace (also my former boss), told me that this award isn't given frequently. "It's quite prestigous and really, a big deal," he said.