Jackie Schueler, manager of the Radiology Department at NUMC receives the Patriotic Employer Award. Photo left to right: Doug Broich, Jackie Schueler and Sgt Kailey Silva.

NEW ULM – Jackie Schueler, manager of the Radiology Department at New Ulm Medical Center (NUMC), was presented the Department of Defense’s Patriotic Employer Award by Sgt. Kailey Silva of the U.S. Army Reserves.

Outside of the Army Reserves, Silva works as a sonographer in the Radiology Department under Schueler.

The award was given on Dec 8 at the New Ulm Medical Center in recognition of her support of her employee’s service to the US Army Reserve.

Silva said she wanted to express her sincere appreciation to Schueler for her unwavering support and understanding of her military career. She said her flexibility and encouragement, especially during times when she needed to be away from work, have made a significant difference.

“I am truly grateful for her respect for my service commitments,” Silva said.

Schueler herself is a veteran having served four years of active duty in the Army.

An employee serving in the National Guard or Military Reserve, or a spouse of a National Guard or Military Reserve member, may nominate individual supervisors for the Patriot Award for support provided directly to the nominating Service member and his or her family. The Patriot Award reflects the efforts made to support citizen warriors through a wide-range of measures including flexible schedules, time off prior to an after deployment, caring for families, and granting leaves of absence if needed.

In addition to presenting a Patriot Award, Schueler signed an Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Statement of Support, confirming that the company joins other employers in pledging:

To recognize, honor, and comply with the Uniformed Services Employment and Re-Employment Rights Act (USERRA).

The pledge promises to provide managers and supervisors with the tools needed to effectively manage employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve. The pledge supports the values, leadership and unique skills service members bring to the workforce and encourages opportunities to hire guardsmen, reservists and veterans.

Also, present was Doug Broich Region, Chair and ESGR Minnesota Committee member. ESGR is a Department of Defense office that develops and promotes supportive work environments for service members in the National Guard and Reserve through outreach, recognition, and educational opportunities that increase awareness of applicable laws.

ESGR also provides assistance in resolving conflicts between Service members and their employers. This year celebrates 53 years of excellence in support of the Reserve Components and their civilian employers. For more information about ESGR outreach programs or volunteer opportunities, call (800) 336-4590 or visit www.ESGR.mil.