Mark Westcott was recently awarded the ESGR (Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve) Patriotic Employer Award. As manager of the User Services Department, Mark manages technical support specialists and audio/visual support staff for all campus locations. Recently after being hired by Mark in 2014, the National Guard had scheduled Kyle Warner, CWI Technical Support Specialist, to attend a three-month training course in Fort Meade, Maryland. After working at CWI for only one week, he would then have to go on military leave. Upon returning from training, Mark and all of Kyle’s colleagues welcomed him back as if he had only been gone a few short days. Since that time, Kyle was called to participate in multiple training events while serving part-time in the National Guard and full-time at CWI. “Each time, I have not worried about whether or not there would be any repercussions when I return or opportunities missed,” shared Kyle. “Even on short notice, Mark has accommodated my requests for time off and my coworkers have stepped in to fulfill my obligations.” For these and many other reasons, Kyle chose to nominate Mark for the ESGR award. The Department of Defense ESGR Patriotic Employer Award honors and recognizes employers who are dedicated to supporting those serving their country while being employed. “Serving in the military is something I feel very passionate about and the support I receive from Mark makes the time away from my friends and family a little easier knowing my employment is not something I need to worry about,” added Kyle.