Delta Air Lines Signs "5-Star" Statement of Support for the National Guard and Reserve

ATLANTA – Mr. Bob Hollingsworth, executive director of the National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Committee, an agency of the Department of Defense, joined Delta Air Lines CEO Jerry Grinstein, for the signing of a “5-Star” Statement of Support for the National Guard and Reserve. The signing ceremony occurred at Delta’s Atlanta headquarters.

The “5-Star” Statement of Support confirms that Delta Air Lines:

• Signed a Statement of Support publicly demonstrating its support for its employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve.
• Reviewed its Human Resources policies to ensure compliance with the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA).
• Promotes training for managers and supervisors to effectively manage its employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve.
• Adopted polices and programs that are “Above and Beyond” what is required by the USERRA law.
• Is an advocate for employee service in the National Guard and Reserve and will help to promote the mission of ESGR.

“Our national security is inextricably linked to America’s employers,” said Hollingsworth. “Supportive employers like Delta Air Lines are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s National Guard and Reserve units.”

When asked about the “5-Star” criteria, Hollingsworth said, “By meeting the 5-Star Statement of Support criteria, Delta Air Lines will stand proudly with its Guard and Reserve employees, who like the Minutemen before them, continue to answer their nation’s call to defend our way of life. Their personal sacrifices are essential to the strength of our nation.”

“Delta’s commitment to our men and women in uniform is something we view as an obligation to our country and to our employees, and reflects the core values of the people of this airline,” said Grinstein. “I’m proud to be part of an organization that goes above and beyond for employees in the Armed Services, ensuring they are welcomed home with open arms when they return from their military commitments.”

“Delta joins a cadre of Fortune 500 companies, state and federal agencies and thousands of America’s employers in demonstrating support for our armed forces,” added Hollingsworth.

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) is a Department of Defense agency established in 1972. The mission of ESGR is to gain and maintain active support from all public and private employers for the men and women of the National Guard and Reserve. ESGR volunteers provide free education, consultation, and if necessary mediation for employers of Guard and Reserve employees.

As the 1.2 million members of the National Guard and Reserve continue to perform an increasing number of unique missions that require extraordinary actions on the part of everyday citizens, ESGR will continue to be the informational agency for the employers of America’s new Minutemen. More information about ESGR Employer Outreach Programs and volunteer opportunities is available at www.esgr.mil, or by calling (800) 336-4590.