Thanks to a recommendation from employee Austin Adams, the United States Department of Defense recognized Crown Equipment Corporation and one of its supervisors for their support of employees who are members of the U.S. National Guard and/or Reserve services. Adams’ nomination of his supervisor, Dave Lauth, earned Lauth and Crown the Patriot Award from the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), which is a U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) operational committee. Crown is one of the world’s largest material handling companies.

“As my supervisor, Dave takes time to understand the duties I have to fulfill as a member of the U.S. National Guard,” stated Adams. “I appreciate the flexibility he provides during times I need to complete my training. I’m grateful to work for a company that supports the employment of past and present members of the U.S. military. During my year at Crown, it’s become evident that the company recognizes the value of hiring service men and women.”

This is not the first time a Crown employee earned the ESGR Patriot Award. In 2013, National Guard Reservist Aaron Powell, nominated his supervisor for the honor. Adams and Powell are two of many Crown employees who have served or currently serve in U.S. military service.

ESGR was established in 1972 to promote cooperation and understanding between Reserve Component Service members and their civilian employers. It was also created to assist in the resolution of conflicts arising from an employee’s military commitment. ESGR is supported by a network of more than 4,700 volunteers in 54 committees located across all 50 states, the District of Columbia, Guam-CNMI, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands.