EAST LONGMEADOW, MA. September 28, 2009. The President & Business Manager of The International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 98 was awarded the Patriot Award at his office today. Dean L. Pursell, a union member, and also a Senior Master Sergeant in the Air Force Reserve, nominated him to thank him for support of his career in the military. This was the second Patriot Award "Mitty" received this year, attesting to his strong support of the Guard and Reserve. As a further testimony to this support, Mr. Melville signed a Statement of Support after receiving his award. The International Union of Operating Engineers, Local 98 has approximately 1,300 members in Western Massachusetts, Western New Hampshire and the entire state of Vermont.   

The National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) 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 USERRA law of 1994 and resolving conflicts through mediation. The MA Committee has more than 35 volunteers dedicated to helping every "Citizen Soldier". On hand representing MAESGR were Ombudsman Director and Western MA Area Chair Earl Bonett and Staff Member Bill Hebert.   

Left to right: “Mitty” Melville receiving the Patriot Award from Earl Bonett

 

   

 

If you would like nominate your Boss for an award, call the MA Committee for ESGR at 508-233-7249 or go to www.esgr.mil.