DPA reservist recognizes employer's support

Fairbanks News Miner Nov. 4, 2003
by Spc. George Kyriakeas, 20th Public Affairs Detachment

FAIRBANKS -- A reservist deploying in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and State of Alaska employee presented to his employer a certificate of appreciation from the Employer Support of Guard and Reserve Program Friday.

Capt. Michael Pauling, who works with the Adult Public Assistance Office of Fairbanks Division of Public Assistance gave a "My Boss is a Patriot Award" to his supervisor, Mary Lou Jorrisen.

Pauling nominated Jorissen for the award to recognize the support he has received for both this and previous deployments. "My mobilization was a short-time notice; they received less than 30 days advance notification," he said. "Upon notification of my employer, they asked us, 'what do we have to do in order to help you.'"

"I expect workers here to provide excellent customer service and if you don't treat employees properly you're not going to get that," said Jorrisen.

Pauling reports Nov. 12 to the Headquarters of the US Army Corps of Engineers Provost Marshal Office in Washington, DC.