UFMC recognized as patriots

Larry Bar-nett, Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) and Jerry Hansen, Montgomery County Veter-ans Director and Area 2 Military Liaison for the Iowa Committee for Em-ployer Support of the Guard and Reserve, presented Richard Moreland, Grain Department Man-ager and John Pruss, General Man-ager of United Farmers Mercantile Cooperative (UFMC), with the “Patriotic Employer” award because of their contribution toward national security and protecting liberty and freedom by supporting employee participation in America’s National Guard and Reserve. The two managers also received lapel pins with flags of the United States and ESGR and a banner reading “Patriot.”

SPC David Vodicka, an employee of UFMC had recommended UFMC’s management and employees for this honor and recognition. Vodicka is now serving in Kuwait with the 443rd Transportation Company, United States Army Reserve.

ESGR was established in 1972 to promote cooperation and understanding between Reserve component members and their civilian employers, and to assist in conflict resolution from an employee’s commitment. Today, ESGR operates through a network of hundreds of volunteers throughout the nation.