St. Charles recognized for employing veterans

For a third straight year, the U.S. Department of Labor is recognizing St. Charles for the city's commitment to employing military veterans.

In accordance with the Honoring Investments in Recruiting and Employing American Military Veterans Act of 2017, the city announced last week it is receiving the HIRE Vets Gold Medallion Award.

"I'm very proud of the city," St. Charles Mayor Ray Rogina said. "You always want to try to hire the best candidate, number one, but at the end of the day when you place into your midst people who have served their country, that's always a bonus.

"People who are patriotic and have served their country tend to be individuals who are going to be a credit to the system," he said. "I'm happy that we were able to accept that honor."

St. Charles received the award in the medium-sized employer category. To receive the award, at least 7% of employees must be veterans with 75% employed for at least a year.

The city exceeded that mark with 10% of its workforce consisting of veterans.

"It is our pleasure to support the heroes who sacrifice for their country," said St. Charles Director of Human Resources Jennifer McMahon.