Advocate Sherman nursing leaders recognized by Pentagon

On Wednesday, March 14, Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) volunteer Troy Stinson presented Advocate Sherman Hospital nursing leaders Darren Smith and April Perry with the "Patriotic Employer" Award.

Former emergency room associate and registered nurse Lt. Katie Maleski of the U.S. Army Reserve nominated Smith and Perry for their steadfast commitment and support to the men and women working for Advocate Sherman Hospital who also serve in the U.S. Military Reserve Components.

The patriotic employer award is designed to recognize supervisors and bosses for support that helps National Guardsmen or reservists serve the nation.

Employer support can include such things as flexible scheduling, time off before and after deployment, caring for family members, granting leaves of absence when needed and recognizing and appreciating the employee's military service.

"Our relationship with our active duty associates and all of our veterans is important and enduring," commented Cheri Goll, Chief Nurse Executive at Advocate Sherman Hospital. "Darren and April represent our hospital's dedication in supporting the men and women who sacrifice every day to ensure our freedom."

The Employer Support for the Guard and Reserve is a Department of Defense office that was established in 1972 to promote cooperation and understanding between Reserve Component Service members and their civilian employers; assisting in the resolution of conflicts arising from an employee's military commitment.

Its goal is to support U.S. employers who share their employees with the Department of Defense to ensure our national security.