Milford - On November 7, 2008, the Massachusetts Department of Corrections (DOC) held its 21st. Annual awards banquet. About 370 people, including two members of the MA ESGR committee attended. Mr. Thomas Boyle, Field Chair, and Mr. Joe Ryan, Executive Director, were the ESGR representatives.

Mr. Harold W. Clark, the DOC Commissioner, previously signed a statement of support which was presented to him in a small frame. He was also presented the Above & Beyond Award for support shown to members at deployments and recognitions given to individual service members that also serve in the reserves. In presenting the award, Mr. Boyle noted the DOC pays the differential in Salary and continues the health benefits for their employees when they are called to military duty. The DOC also looks very favorably upon job applicants that are currently in the Guard or Reserve.

During the same awards night, the Department of Corrections issued this year's “Innovative Partners in Public Safety and Security Award” to the Massachusetts National Guard. In presenting the award to COL Smith, the MA DOC noted the “tremendous cooperation and sharing that exist between the two agencies is second to none. The partnership models the way as a true success for all to see. It is truly one of the best in the business."

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