. December 7, 2009. Mr. Gary Shepard, Administrator of the Berkshire Regional Transit Authority, was presented the Patriot Award in his office in the Intermodal Transportation Center (ITC) located in Downtown Pittsfield. He was nominated for this award by employee James Barnes who is also a Master Sergeant (MSgt) in the US Air Force Reserve. MSgt Barnes said that Mr. Shepard supports not only his military career, but also that of other service members. He is active in the "Soldier On" Program that helps homeless veterans find housing. Mr. Shepard further demonstrated his support of the military by signing a Statement of Support.  

The Berkshire Regional Transit Authority (BRTA) provides public transportation services to its 23 member communities within Berkshire County. The BRTA was one of eight original regional transit authorities (RTAs) created by state statute in 1974. Today, fourteen RTAs are responsible for administering public transportation services throughout much of Massachusetts outside of the Boston metropolitan area. The Administrator serves as the chief executive officer of the authority and is responsible for the day to day oversight of BRTA administrative services. All transportation services are provided by private contractors under contract with BRTA.   

The BRTA is very active in local community affairs. Its new ITC is adjacent to two elderly housing facilities greatly improving transportation services for these individuals. The second floor of the ITC houses classrooms of Berkshire Community College and the Massachusetts College of Liberal Arts allowing those students transit dependant with access to advanced education services.     

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 40 volunteers dedicated to helping every "Citizen Soldier". On hand representing MAESGR were Western MA Chair and Ombudsman Director Earl Bonett and Staff Member Bill Hebert.  

     

   

Left to Right: MSgt James Barnes, Gary Shepard  and Earl Bonett       
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Mr. Gary Shepard signing the Statement of Support  _________________________________________________________________________________

 

 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