NORWOOD, MA. April 28, 2010. U.S. Army Reserve Sergeant First Class (SFC) Gerald Mahoney recently received The Bronze Star with "V" device (Valor) for risking his life to save a fellow soldier. However, SFC Mahoney is no stranger to laying his life on the line for the good of others every day, SFC Gerald Mahoney is also a Fire Fighter and proud member of the Norwood, Massachusetts Fire Department. Mr. Mahoney recommended his boss, Chief Michael Howard for The Patriot Award. In his nomination, Fire Fighter Mahoney said of his Chief and the Town of Norwood: "It's not only the Norwood Fire Department, but the town government of Norwood that is exceptionally pro military and dedicated to assisting its employees who are serving our country". Chief Howard added that shortly after 9/11, the Board of Selectmen authorized a pay differential and other benefits for all Guard and Reserve Members during military service. SFC Mahoney is one of two Fire Fighters who are Guard and Reserve members. Chief Howard accepted the award with 7 other department members present. 

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 South Eastern Area Chair and Senior Ombudsman Joachim-Ingo "Ski" Borowski, Volunteer, Roger Fortin and Program Support Specialist David St. Germain.  

      

 

    Left to Right:  “Ski” Borowski, Norwood Fire Chief Michael Howard and Fire Fighter and Reserve Member Gerald Mahoney   

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