MORGANTOWN, W.Va. — Two Monongalia County law enforcement departments have received high praises for their support of employees who are also service members.
Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve is a Department of Defense office that has been active for more than 4 decades.
ESGR fosters employers’ support for workers who are also members of the National Guard and Reserve.
The Monongalia County Sheriff’s Department has been chosen as an “Above and Beyond Award” recipient.
“This is something they give different departments who have reserves in their department,” explained Monongalia County Sheriff’s Chief Deputy Perry Palmer. “And, when they get deployed or their monthly call up, the sheriff is always adamant about letting them go and do their duties for the country.”
The Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act serves as a job protect for those deployed.
The “Above and Beyond Award” recognizes employers that make additional allowances for workers.
According to the ESGR, that could include differential or full pay to offset lost wages or extended health benefits. They can vary among award winners.
Palmer said the department is proud of its deputies and staff members who serve.
“We just think it’s vital and it’s important that these people go out and train and get deployed and take care of our country.”
There are at least 4 reserve or guardsmen who work for the sheriff’s department.
“One of our deputies just left May first for a year deployment. We have another that’s leaving September 29th for a year deployment. We have another one the following March that has to go for a year deployment,” Perry listed.
WVU Police Chief Bob Roberts received the Patriot Award from ESGR.
The Patriot Award recognizes individuals, as opposed to entire an entire staff or organization as a whole.