Idaho ESGR

On December 23, Idaho ESGR proudly presented the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Patriotic Employer Award to Doug Williams, Jenny Hawkes, and Dallas Jones of the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office.

They were nominated by ARNG Sgt. Luke Zitting, who shared how their unwavering support made it possible for him to meet his military obligations — even on short notice — during a time when the agency was already short‑staffed.

Their flexibility, understanding, and commitment to Sgt. Zitting’s service exemplify what true employer support looks like. Thank you for standing behind those who serve our nation both at home and abroad.

Steve Silcock of the Portneuf Medical Center in Pocatello, Idaho, was presented with an Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Patriotic Employer Award on December 3.

Navy Reservist Christine Vass nominated Mr. Silcock for his outstanding support of military employees in the Emergency Department. When a team member received short-notice deployment orders, Steve ensured they felt valued and reassured, despite staffing challenges. His leadership shows true commitment to both patient care and those who serve our country.

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Idaho ESGR presented Patriotic Employer Awards to four individuals of the Saint Alphonsus Emergency Department in Nampa for their support of reserve component members who not only work as full-time physicians, but serve our community in the Idaho National Guard.

According to nominator Spc. Dustyn Sneider, "Jessie Payton knew that hiring me would mean she would have to work extra to ensure that my time off was covered, while already short staffed, and as a night shift employee. She, along with my three other supervisors (Sarai Asbury, Quinton Martinez, and Brandon Winn), ensured that every time I have drill that there were no issues. They have been supportive of my service to the guard, as well as making sure that when surprise opportunities showed up that I immediately got the time off. They have been nothing but kind, supportive, and quick to work with me and my unit. I wanted to take the opportunity to recognize them and the amazing efforts and changes they have brought forward to continue to support our service members within our Emergency Medicine Group and company."

Thank you to the four recipients for being patriotic employers!

Thank you to all the many veterans who have served or continue to serve. Your courage, sacrifice, and dedication mean so much. Idaho ESGR is honored to work alongside you in our mission to support Guard and Reserve members. Wishing you a meaningful Veterans Day and sending lots of appreciation your way.

ESGR was honored to recognize Claire Sitts of the St. Luke’s Children’s Hospital on August 20 with an Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Patriotic Employer Award.

Natalie Donohoo nominated Claire for the award as a way to say thank you for being so supportive during her husband’s recent deployment with the Idaho National Guard . “Claire was there for me in so many ways. She bent over backwards to be flexible with my work schedule, but more importantly, she was the shoulder I could cry on when I needed that.” Ms. Sitts was truly surprised and appreciative of the award noting, “I just like helping people; it is what I do and Natalie is a great employee.”

Thank you, Ms. Sitts, for your patriotic support!

Tyler Hiatt and Keenan Lukens of Frito-Lay in Boise were presented with Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Patriotic Employer Awards on July 17.

According to 2nd Lieutenant Piper Browning of the Idaho National Guard, "Serving my country is a profound honor, and I am deeply appreciative that you have allowed me to fulfill my military obligations alongside my civilian career. Your understanding and flexibility regarding time off for training, accommodating drill schedules, and support during training preparation have been incredibly meaningful. Knowing that I have your backing allows me to focus on both my duties at Frito-Lay and my responsibilities to the Guard without added stress. The support of employers like you is vital to the strength of the National Guard and the security of our nation. I am proud to have worked for a company that values service and demonstrates such a strong commitment to its employees who serve."

Thank you, gentlemen, for your patriotic support!

We are heartbroken by the loss of our dear friend, Don Carlock - devoted volunteer, inspiring leader, and cherished member of our community. Don’s unwavering commitment to service and his generous spirit touched countless lives. His legacy will live on in the hearts of all who had the privilege to know him.

Don, you will be deeply missed. Thank you for everything you gave to us.

Services will be on Monday, July 28, 2025
Viewing at Accent Funeral Home, 1303 N. Main Street, Meridian from 11:00 to 1:00 followed by an escorted procession from the funeral home to Kuna Cemetery for graveside service at 2pm

Another glimpse into Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Bosslift 2025 from last week. This event was coordinated by Idaho ESGR and Idaho National Guard to thank local employers and to show them what their Guard and Reserve employees do for our state and our nation.

You too can help in this critical mission: https://www.esgr.mil/Volunteers/Become-a-Volunteer #/

On Thursday, the Idaho National Guard in Southwestern Idaho welcomed nearly 100 local employers for the 2025 Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Bosslift. This event gives inside perspective to employers of Service Members by immersing them in the activities of the Guard and its mission to maintain combat readiness, develop and strengthen homeland security, and build and foster community partnerships.

Attendees participated in training exercises with the UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter along with many demonstrations and virtual simulations to learn more about the Idaho National Guard.

All of this is a way to say thank you and promote a positive relationship between employers and their employees that wear the uniform part-time. According to Idaho National Guard commander Maj. Gen. Tim Donnellan, the Idaho National Guard relies on essential support from civilian employers and the community to be successful in critical missions at both a state and federal level.

2025 was possible due to ESGR event coordinator Linda Eisele and many other volunteers, along with support from across the Idaho National Guard.

Credit to louiethelens.com for this first batch of photos. More to come soon!

More pictures coming in the next few days about this fantastic event today!

Boss Lift event checks off 'bucket list,' ‘childhood dream’ for Idaho employers GOWEN FIELD — Nearly 100 employers — ranging from Boise’s Whiskey Bar to east Idaho's Teton High School — gathered at Gowen Field Thursday morning for the Idaho National Guard’s

Approximately 50 people from the Saint Alphonsus Curtisian Clinic joined in recognizing Carol Lunt and Shane Allen on July 8 for receiving Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Patriotic Employer Awards.

Army Reserve First Lieutenant and Saint Alphonsus colleague Payton Lopez nominated them sharing, "Carol and Shane both foster a workplace environment that values service and flexibility to ensure that I am able to balance my civilian career and military obligations and I am supported without hesitation. I'm thankful to have them as leaders and for Saint Alphonsus as a whole."

Thank you to Carol and Shane and the Saint Alphonsus crew for your patriotic support!