NORTHAMPTON, MA. September 30, 2009. Robert J. Garvey, the Hampshire County Sheriff, was presented his second Patriot Award during a brief ceremony at his facility. Sheriff Garvey was nominated for this recognition by one of his employees, Shannon McPhee, who is also a Specialist (SPC) in the MA Army National Guard. In her nomination form, SPC McPhee wrote: "Sheriff Garvey and his staff have bent over backwards and have been extremely accommodating and helpful in helping me and other soldiers. He always hires and supports those currently serving in the U.S. Military and Veterans." Sheriff Garvey stated that he is honored to be able to help members of our military forces. He previously signed a Statement of Support.    

Sheriff Garvey operates the Hampshire County Jail and House of Correction, the first county facility in Massachusetts to be accredited by the American Correctional Association. He has been the Hampshire County Sheriff since1984.   

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 Uniform Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act of 1994 (USERRA) 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 Mass Area Chair Earl Bonett and Staff Member Bill Hebert.     

 

Left to Right: Sheriff Robert J. Garvey and Earl Bonett

 

 

   

If you would join the MA ESGR Committee and volunteer your time, call the MA Committee for ESGR at 508-233-7249 or go to www.esgr.mil..