Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services
COLUMBIA, Md. — Howard County Department of Fire and Rescue Services (HCDFRS) has been informed by Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense program, that they are a recipient of the 2017 Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award.
Fifteen employers, out of over 3,000 submissions, from across the nation were selected to receive the prestigious award, the Nation’s highest recognition given by the U.S. Government to employers for their support of their employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve. Since 1996, there have only been approximately 250 awardees.
“Our Fire Department is a strong advocate for hiring military to work within its ranks,” said Howard County Executive Allan H. Kittleman. “They recognize the unique skill set found among those who train and serve with the military and the value these skills bring to protecting the residents and visitors in Howard County.”
In their nomination, ESGR noted that:
- HCDFRS proudly supports its veterans, National Guard and Reserve members. Military members express a high level of appreciation for the level of support and recognition provided to them by the agency that begins at the top leadership level.
- The department purchased both a red, white and blue tower (fire truck) and paramedic unit for one of the busiest fire stations in the county. The apparatus are emblazoned with “We Support Our Troops” and “We Support Our Veterans” in their paint motif.
- Fire Chief John S. Butler and staff personally mentor the service members, encouraging them to pursue their military careers despite the obvious impact on the duty schedule within the department.
- Department personnel include family in fire station dinners and perform chores normally done by the deployed spouse to maintain a sense of normalcy for the family.
“Howard County Fire and Rescue is proud to support our National Guard and Reserve members as well as their families,” said Fire Chief John S. Butler. “I credit our County Administration with providing us the opportunity to support those who continue to serve both locally and nationally.”
HCDFRS will be honored in an Aug. 25 Ceremony at the Pentagon.