CHICOPEE, MA. August 7, 2010. Employers of US Air Force Reservists traveled to Westover Air Reserve Base in Chicopee, MA to get a firsthand look at what their employees do when they don their military uniforms. The day started early with everyone reporting to the Base Hanger to sign in and pick up their "mobilization" and ESGR information packets. Each mobility folder had the employer's name and "rank". The rank was assigned randomly and one employer was named the "Troop Commander". After progressing though the mobility line everyone moved to the conference room where the 439th Air Wing Commander, Colonel (COL) Robert R. Swain Jr. provided an overview of the wing's activities and interaction with the surrounding communities. COL Swain then answered questions from the "troops". Prior to his departure, COL Swain was presented the Seven Seals Award from the MA Field Chair Tom Boyle. Mr. Boyle thanked COL Swain for the outstanding support he, and the entire 439th Air Wing, have continually provided to ESGR and all military members and their families.  

Next was the Intel brief to give up to the minute information on the "deployment" site. The importance of this information on foreign areas was discussed. The group then heard what it's like to deploy from unit members who have been on multiple deployments. One of the 439th's giant C-5 aircraft was parked right outside the base hanger so employers could get an up close look and tour. A cargo loading demo showed the effort required to get a tractor safely on and off the plane. After a safety brief, employers became part of the load crew. Upon reentering the base hanger small groups were lead to the C-5 simulator where they were able to "fly" the plane. While waiting their turn to "fly" employers were briefed on the chemical protection gear worn by the military. They then had the opportunity to don the gear and personally witness what their employees must endure while performing their military jobs while wearing this equipment.  

After everyone had the opportunity to "fly" and don the chemical gear, a bus took the group to the "dogpatch" which is an area used for various field training tasks. One of the highlights of the "dogpatch" visit was having lunch which consisted of bottled water and Meals-Ready-to-Eat (MREs) After an MRE demonstration by a service member, employers picked their favorite meal and enjoyed eating, and in some cases, trading, their various delightful food items. While eating, the various ESGR programs (awards, mediation and statements of support) were covered. The gathering then took a short walk in the woods where they observed an aircrew survivor training exercise. Employers also had the chance to visit their employees at their military work sites to view what they do when in uniform.  

The long day ended at the Westover Club for snacks and Air Force and ESGR videos along with informal discussions on the day's activities. All employers said it was a great learning experience and well worth the time they spent.  

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 Field Office has more than 40 volunteers dedicated to helping every "Citizen Soldier". On hand representing MAESGR were volunteer Diane Swain, Field Chair Tom Boyle, Executive Director Joe Ryan and Program Support Manager Bill Hebert. The CT ESGR Field Office also assisted during this event as CT was well represented by Lisa and Rich Haig

       

    Employers receiving a "mobility" briefing 

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 Employers as they move through the mobility line ______________________________________________________________________________

Colonel Robert R. Swain Jr. receiving the Seven Seals Award from MA Field Chair Tom Boyle ______________________________________________________________________________

Mr. Tim Ranson/ Golden Nozzle "models" the chemical gear outfit  _________________________________________________________________________

The group enjoying their MREs _______________________________________________________________________________

Employer in front of the C-5aircraft ______________________________________________________________________________

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.