916th ARW Hosts N.C. ESGR Board

  • Published
  • By SSgt. Mark Thompson
  • 916th Public Affairs Office
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  The 916th Air Refueling Wing often participates in programs hosted by the North Carolina Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), but the role was reversed in August when the wing hosted the ESGR board, the first time the organization has ever met on a military installation.

Interim State Chairman Ronald E. Bogle, who takes the reins of the organization October 1 from long-time Chairman L.M. "Bud" Baker, said the decision to meet on a military installation was to expose the ESGR board to the military members they support. "I think sometimes just to hear the sound of a jet engine or a tank is a way to remind our members about why it is and who it is we serve."

Instead of tanks, the members experienced a tanker. The attendees were given a tour of a KC-135 Stratotanker and were also given a full weapons demonstration by members of the 916th Security Forces Squadron.

"The 916th has been a great partner for us and we look forward to every opportunity we can to in some way say thank you for the support that you've provided us," said Bogle. "We hope that the support we provide in return is a valuable investment in 916th's time and resources."

ESGR, a Department of Defense office, 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.

For more information visit www.ESGR.mil.