10/07/2026
Thank you, “Navy” Dave!
After many years of dedicated leadership and service as an ND Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Area Chair, David “Dave” Johnston is taking on a new role within the ESGR family. While he may be stepping away from the Area Chair role, Dave isn’t stepping away from ESGR. He will continue serving as an ESGR volunteer, a true testament to his ongoing dedication to the mission and the people he supports.
Throughout his 23 years—and counting—as an ESGR volunteer, Dave has logged the most volunteer hours in the state and presented hundreds of ESGR Awards and Statements of Support. He has also served as State Vice Chair for North Dakota and on the State Awards Committee. While his leadership role is changing, he’ll continue sharing his time and experience as an ESGR volunteer.
A retired Captain in the United States Navy Reserve, Dave brings 27 years of experience as a reservist to his ESGR work. His firsthand understanding of the experiences and challenges faced by National Guard and Reserve service members and their families has helped him connect with military units and strengthen relationships between employers, service members, and the communities we serve.
Those who have worked alongside Dave know his impact extends far beyond the many hours he has given to ESGR. Delton Steele, North Dakota State Chair Emeritus, shared:
“David Johnston is the most dedicated volunteer that I can remember working with after having been involved in numerous volunteer organizations over my many years of being a business professional and volunteer. If you want something done, done correctly, professionally, and on time, David Johnston is your volunteer. He goes about his volunteer work in the most humble way and is always the first to recognize those who work with him and deflects any credit for success from himself to others.”
Dave’s dedication has also earned him numerous honors, including the North Dakota ESGR State Chair Award and the ESGR Seven Seals Award. In 2021, he received the James M. Roche Spirit of Volunteerism Award, the highest award presented by ESGR to a State Committee Volunteer.
Dave is deeply appreciated and respected by his peers and community. His genuine care, positive attitude, and great sense of humor have touched countless lives throughout his years with ESGR. As he moves into this next chapter, those qualities—and his commitment to serving others—will continue to benefit ESGR and the people it supports.
Thank you, Dave, for your years of dedicated leadership, service, and friendship. While your role as Area Chair is changing, your commitment to ESGR is not. We’re grateful that you’ll continue serving as an ESGR volunteer and sharing your time, experience, and passion with the people and mission you have supported for so many years.
As Dave transitions into his new role, the Fargo Area Chair responsibilities will now be shared by Kristy Wangler and Diane Laffen, who will continue the strong tradition of ESGR outreach and support in the Fargo area.
