ESGR, a Department of Defense program, was established in 1972 to promote cooperation and understanding between Reserve Component Service members and their civilian employers and to assist in the resolution of conflicts arising from an employee's military commitment. ESGR is supported by a network of more than 3,000 volunteers in 54 committees located across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam-CNMI (Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands), Puerto Rico, and the U.S. Virgin Islands. Volunteers, hailing from small business and industry, government, education, and prior military service bring a vast wealth of experience to assist in serving employers, Service members, and their families. Together with Headquarters ESGR staff and a small cadre of support staff for each State Committee, volunteers work to promote and enhance employer support for military service in the Guard and Reserve.

ESGR has served our country for more than 45 years, fostering a culture in which all employers support and value the employment and military service of members of the National Guard and Reserve in the United States. These citizen warriors could not defend and protect us at home and abroad without the continued promise of meaningful civilian employment for themselves and their families. ESGR has continued to adapt to meet the needs of Reserve Component members, their families, and America’s employers by joining forces with a network of other national, state, and local government and professional trade organizations. Together, We All Serve!

Mission Statement

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) is a Department of Defense program that develops and promotes supportive work environments for Service members in the Reserve Components through outreach, recognition, and educational opportunities that increase awareness of applicable laws.  It also provides assistance in resolving conflicts between the Service members and their employers.

How ESGR Can Help

ESGR understands the unique talents and skill set Guard and Reserve Service members can bring to the civilian workforce. To make this arrangement work, both parties must be aware of their rights and responsibilities under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA). ESGR is here to help! With an ESGR committee in each state, territory, and the District of Columbia, there is an ESGR representative able to help you forge a stronger bond with your supervisor through a greater understanding of your military service.

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USERRA for Service Members

To assist with understanding the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act (USERRA), ESGR has partnered with the Department of Labor to create a list of frequently asked questions (FAQs) concerning USERRA. These FAQs may help eliminate any problems with your employer by keeping you informed of your rights and responsibilities. View the FAQs here.

Other sources for USERRA FAQs are:

Title 20 Chapter IX Part 1002 - Regulations Under USERRA

Title 5 Chapter I Subchapter B Part 353 - Restoration to Duty from Uniformed Service or Compensable Injury

Title 38 Chapter 43 - Employment and Reemployment Rights of Members of the Uniformed Services

DoD Instruction (DoDI) 1205.12 Civilian Employment and Reemployment Rights for Service Members, Former Service Members and Applicants of the Uniformed Services

ESGR has provided resources to use as a quick reference when working with your civilian employer and military command.

While preparing for mobilization or demobilization, review these checklists, made available by ESGR. While not every step is required to maintain reemployment rights, following these steps can help ensure a smooth transition to and from military service.