Contributed

U.S. Rep. Larry Kissell honored a Rockingham business and reserve soldier at a recent appreciation event. Pictured, from left, are Kissell, ESGR Chairman James G. Rebholz, Tech. Sgt. David Medlin, Vulcan Materials’ Rockingham Plant Manager Charles Heatherly, Lt. Gen. Ron Christmas and North Carolina ESGR Chairman L.M. “Bud” Baker.

slideshow

U.S. Rep. Larry Kissell helped to recognize a local reserve soldier and his employer at an event earlier this month in Greensboro.

He was a guest speaker and presenter at the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) of North Carolina’s Employer Recognition Banquet. The yearly event recognizes employers that support employee participation in the Guard and Reserve and go beyond what is required by law in support of their employees who serve.

“I’m humbled to be among so many heroes,” said Kissell. “The service and sacrifice of those who defend our freedom is shared equally by members of their families, and these businesses recognize that and work to take care of all who serve. There are too few ways to honor the sacrifice of the brave men and women of our military, and these employers have gone above and beyond what is required of them to do just that.”

Vulcan Materials Company of Rockingham was among the award recipients, honoring their commitment to Guard and Reserve soldiers, including employee David Medlin, a Technical Sergeant in the N.C. Air National Guard. Medlin nominated Vulcan for the “Above and Beyond Award” as a way of saying thanks to Vulcan for their dedication to taking care of he and his family while in the Reserves, as well as while on active duty. Kissell joined Medlin in presenting the award to Charles Heatherly, Plant Manager for Vulcan’s Rockingham Quarry.

“The devotion of Technical Sergeant Medlin to our community, as well as to the nation, exemplifies the word ‘service’ and the commitment these brave men and women make every day,” added Kissell. “I’m proud of Mr. Heatherly and those at Vulcan Materials for doing all they can to take care of the ones that take care of us all. I was honored to be able to present this award and recognize them both for their wonderful service to the people of North Carolina’s Eighth District and our nation.”

Many of the businesses recognized with awards offer Guard and Reserve soldiers, and their families, continued medical benefits and pay differential while they are put on active duty, as well as continued accumulation of vacation time and other benefits. ESGR is a Department of Defense agency established in 1972, designed to gain and maintain employer support for Guard and Reserve service by recognizing outstanding support, increasing awareness of the law and resolving conflicts through mediation.