(Seguin) — A U.S. Department of Defense organization is recognizing the value of two local law enforcement officials who support and value the employment and military service of those in the National Guard and Reserves. Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), is the lead U.S. Defense Department program which promotes the cooperation and understanding between civilian employers and their National Guard and Reserve employees.
Among those on hand to present the awards during Tuesday’s Guadalupe County Commissioners Court meeting was Major James Cunningham.
Recognized first with the prestigious award was Guadalupe County Sheriff Arnold Zwicke. Cunningham shared Zwicke’s overwhelming support of his employees including all veterans. He was also recognized for having fostered that culture of support for the reserves throughout his career.
“He offers his hand out to anyone in need and has done so for over 20 years as sheriff. Sheriff Zwicke has dedicated his life to law enforcement and the men and women he’s worked with. He is now retiring soon and hanging up his role as sheriff. Sheriff Zwicke has gone above and beyond the call of duty in support of his family, friends, deputies and community,” said Cunningham.
Nominating Zwicke for the award was Guadalupe County Deputy Gary Courtney.
Sharing the spotlight with Zwicke was Guadalupe County Sgt. Trisha Thomas. Cunningham says Thomas was nominated by Detention Officer Martha Udani. He says Udani’s letter spoke highly of her supervisor.
“My supervisor understands the importance of my service and goes to great lengths to ensure that my pay and benefits are correct and intact. She does not act as if my service in the Army Reserve as a burden to the agency and instead is encouraging and makes sure that I have everything I need to be able to serve the military and continue my service to my community. I am blessed to have Sgt. Trisha Thomas as my supervisor,” read Cunningham.
Established in 1972, ESGR operates within the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs. It also informs and educates service members and their civilian employers regarding their rights and responsibilities under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act.