April 16, 2016 –
Brewster, also serving as the Texas ESGR vice chairman, received the award for contributing 4,000 hours in volunteer work since joining the Texas ESGR committee in 1988.
The Texas ESGR APAM gathers annually to connect volunteers in the state, award outstanding employers and volunteers, provide ombudsman updates, conduct military discussion panels and training.
As one of the first recipients of the PVS award presented by the committee, Brewster said he felt humbled and honored to receive such a prestigious award.
Along with the presidential recognition, Brewster received a personalized certificate, an official pin, medallion or coin and a congratulatory letter from the president of the United States.
Established in 1972 by DoD, ESGR focuses on promoting a cooperative culture between employers and National Guard and Reserve soldiers and often act as an advocate for employers within the Department of Defense.
The program also develops and advocates mutually beneficial initiatives, recognize businesses and employers who provide outstanding support to soldiers and increase awareness of laws and policies.
Lastly, ESGR also act as a mediator between employers and soldiers in resolving potential issues or conflicts arising from a soldier’s military obligations.
For Brewster, his work with the ESGR often enables him to serve soldiers better as an ambassador and vice versa.
One of his core duties as an ESGR volunteer is to raise awareness among soldiers and employers about a soldier’s rights and obligations under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act.
“I wear both hats everywhere I go, I can talk about what an Army Reserve ambassador is and I can talk about what an ESGR volunteer is,” he said.
Brewster added, “The ESGR program is one of the great, best things we can do for our Army reservists because it’s a law that guarantees their job back after they go off on training or tour of duty.”
“In essence, ESGR is a great way to take care of our Army reservists. It truly is a family support issue here because the families really appreciate knowing that when their military person is gone, their job is protected,” Brewster said.
“Quite frankly, it’s a good thing and I’m proud to be a part of it.”