Salinas construction supervisor John Salinas II was presented the Washington Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve’s Patriot Award on Oct. 30 in recognition of “extraordinary support” of an employee who serves in the Washington Army National Guard.

Salinas was nominated by Washington Army National Guard Specialist Donny Passey, who said his supervisor offered support “above and beyond” when he was called up to fight wildfires over the summer.

“Supportive supervisors are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s Guard and Reserve units,” said John Van Dalen, an ombudsman for the ESGR, in a statement.

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, a U.S. Department of Defense program, seeks to foster a culture in which all employers support and value the employment and military service of members of the National Guard and Reserve. For more information about ESGR outreach programs or volunteer opportunities, call 800-336-4590 or visit www.EGR.mil.