Everett Massachusetts, 15 December, 2008. The Everett MA City Council Chambers was the scene Monday night for the recognition of this outstanding municipality in Massachusetts. Marine Reservist John Rutledge, who is a member of Everett Fire Department recommended Fire Chief David T. Butler for the prestigious Above and Beyond Award. The Above and Beyond Award honors employers that go above and beyond federal requirements in their support of employees called into active military duty by the National Guard or Reserve. The City of Everett is an employer who does just that.

Everett is located across the Mystic River from Historic Boston and has a population of approximately 38,000 residents. The city employs approximately 1200 people of which 7 are guard and reserve members. Five are fire fighters and two are police officers. These guard and reservist have been or are now serving on active duty. Mayor Carlo DeMaria, Jr. was excited as COL (Ret) Joseph W. Mercuri of The Massachusetts Committee of The Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (MAESGR) made the presentation to Everett Fire Department Chief David Butler as 35 other firefighters looked on. Chief Butler said; “We will try to do anything to support our Brave Members of the Armed Forces” as he was presented the acknowledgement.

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve is a Department of Defense agency established in 1972. The mission of ESGR is to gain and maintain employer support for Guard and Reserve service by recognizing outstanding support, increasing awareness of the law, and resolving conflicts through mediation. Over 4,000 ESGR volunteers nationwide provide free education, consultation, and if necessary mediation for employers of Guard and Reserve employees. To learn more about ESGR visit www.esgr.mil.