Earlier this week, Ben Wolod, Fence & Deck Connection’s VP and COO accepted an award on behalf of Owner Jim Rubush from the U.S. Defense Department’s Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR). Specialist Ben Beares, a member of the 273rd military police company and one of FDC’s Residential Deck Project Managers, nominated Jim and our company for an ESGR Employer Award.
To recognize employers who support their Guard and Reserve employees, ESGR grants a series of Department of Defense awards — a recognition that is actually only awarded to 5% of employers nationwide. The United States has relied heavily on Guard and Reserve Service members since entering continuous operations more than 14 years ago. According to the ESGR, employer support enhances retention rates in the Armed Forces and, in the end, strengthens our national security.
In his own words, Ben Beares explains why he nominated Fence & Deck Connection for this significant honor:
“Jim [Rubush] provided me the opportunity to support multiple operations in the District of Columbia from the riots last summer, the Capitol riots, and most recently QRF operations. He provided military leave to a reasonable extent, the company didn’t question my commitments and made sure I could focus on my mission. Additionally, Jim was there for a fellow veteran and friend of mine who passed away, he showed the utmost professionalism and commitment to the military and veteran community I have ever seen in a civilian employer. I am proud to be a member of a company who holds true to supporting any mission at hand with the military and veteran community.”
We are not only humbled by this nomination and award, but also incredibly proud to have Ben as part of our Fence & Deck Connection family. We are forever indebted to our military heroes and are proud to support our troops in any way possible, whether they be our employees, customers, or neighbors!