The Ohio Department of Commerce has received the State Chair award from the Ohio Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve. The State Chair award is presented annually to employers whose support goes above and beyond the legal requirements for their Ohio National Guard or Reserve employees.

"We are very honored to receive an award for our commitment to supporting the mission of the National Guard," said Director of Commerce Gary C. Suhadolnik. "I encourage other Ohio employers to be 'Patriots' by supporting and accommodating those employees who serve in the Guard or Reserves."

Commerce received the award after Dean Jagger, a boiler inspector supervisor was nominated for the Committee's "My Boss is a Patriot" award. Jagger was nominated by boiler inspector Patrick Kearney for his efforts in facilitating Kearney's quick departure during a National Guard call-up. Jagger was able to intervene and reschedule prior commitments for Kearney, as well as reassign other inspectors to cover Kearney's duties while he was on his mission. Jagger and the 300 other "My Boss is a Patriot" nominees will be honored in March.

Of the 300 individuals receiving the Patriot award, employers for 18 were selected for the State Chair award. Commerce was selected based on Jagger's efforts.

"I applaud Dean's efforts in facilitating a way for Patrick to embark on his mission with the Guard quickly," said Director Suhadolnik. "I am also proud to have employees like Patrick who serve Ohioans, as both state employees and guardsmen."

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