Photo left to right: Pennsylvania ESGR Committee member, Joseph Gentile and Eyer Middle School Principal, Tom Ruhf. Master Sgt. Boyle was not present for this photo as he is currently deployed.
Pennsylvania National Guard Master Sgt. Sean Boyle nominated Eyer Middle School Principal, Tom Ruhf for an Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Patriot Award. This award was presented on February 26, 2024 at Eyer Middle School in recognition of Tom’s support of Boyle’s service to the Pennsylvania National Guard.
Boyle said, “It is tremendously easy dealing with Tom and my school district, even when something occurs on short notice, and I need to perform military duty. I could not ask for a more supportive supervisor. Additionally, he is very patriotic and supports the military and the country in general. His display of patriotism and belief in the opportunities of this country create an environment that helps our students understand how lucky they are to be living and going to a school in the United States. He is a great asset to our nation and someone I am proud to work side by side with as we educate and inspire the youth of the East Penn School District.”
An employee serving in the National Guard or Military Reserve, or the spouse of a National Guard or Military Reserve member, may nominate individual supervisors for the Patriot Award for support provided directly to the nominating service member and his or her family. The Patriot Award reflects the efforts made to support citizen warriors through a wide-range of measures including flexible schedules, time off prior to and after deployment, caring for families, and granting leaves of absence if needed.
ESGR is a Department of Defense office that develops and promotes supportive work environments for service members in the National Guard and Reserve through outreach, recognition, and educational opportunities that increase awareness of applicable laws. ESGR also provides assistance in resolving conflicts between Service members and their employers. This year, ESGR celebrates over 51 years of excellence in support of the Reserve Components and their civilian employers.
Also in attendance at the award presentation was Superintendent of Schools, Dr. Kristen Campbell, Assistant Superintendent, Laura Witman, Assistant Superintendent, Dr. Doug Povilaitis, and Assistant Principal, Misty Armstrong.