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More than 200 employers of California Army National Guard members gathered at Joint Forces Training Base, in Los Alamitos California on Jan. 19, 2024. The event marked the largest "Boss Lift" in its 53-year history, organized by Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) and the 1-140th and the 640th Assault Helicopter Battalion. The event saw the participation of prominent employers, including Tesla, SpaceX, Lockheed Martin, and local community businesses.
The "Boss Lift" initiative by ESGR aims to strengthen the bond between civilian employers and their National Guard and Reserve employees by providing a glimpse into the military's operational capabilities.
"Southern California employers play a crucial role in supporting employees who are also members of the Army [and Air] National Guard," said Stephanie Pofcher, California ESGR Director of Public Affairs. "Supporting employees in the National Guard can include granting time off for training, accommodating flexible schedules during emergencies, and maintaining job security during deployments. By valuing and supporting their employees' military service, employers enhance loyalty, foster a positive work environment, and contribute to the national defense effort."
This event fostered a deeper understanding and appreciation for the crucial role played by National Guard and Reserve members.
"To have an employer who knows I'm in the Guard is very important to me," described Army 1st. Lt. Monica Lee, 1-140th Assault Helicopter Battalion human resource specialist and teacher at Carver Academy. "As a teacher, I can't just leave work with students that need a lesson plan. Having my boss there to support and guide me is very helpful. Having her be aware of what I'm doing helps me support my students when state emergencies arrive. My boss said, 'I'm so happy to see what you do now whenever you're not at school.' Having her experience this was an amazing opportunity."
The highlight of the day was a unique opportunity for attendees to take part in private 25-minute Blackhawk helicopter rides over the picturesque coast of Los Angeles. The experience allowed individuals from various companies to gain firsthand insight into the skills and capabilities of the 1-140th and 640th Assault Helicopter Battalion.
"A lot of what our military members bring to our company has a lot to do with the high standards that they bring from the military," said Matt Galvin, Amazon. "For us as employer's, having that sense of patriotism is why we are here and the pride we have employing them."
Representatives from Tesla, SpaceX, Lockheed Martin, and other local participating companies expressed their gratitude for the opportunity to engage with military personnel in such a unique and immersive manner. The helicopter rides offered a breathtaking view of the coastal landscape, creating a memorable experience for all involved.
As the largest "Boss Lift" in ESGR's extensive history, this event underscored the significance of bridging the gap between the military and civilian sectors. It served as a reminder of the vital role played by the National Guard and Reserve and the importance of fostering strong connections between employers and their military-affiliated employees.
"The Guard members understand what it means to be a team, and that support is important to me as an employer," said Paul Williams, Clay Pot Coffee Company.
| Date Taken: | 01.24.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 01.26.2024 15:50 |
| Story ID: | 462468 |
| Location: | LOS ALAMITOS, US |
| Hometown: | LOS ALAMITOS, CA, US |
| Web Views: | 89 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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