Commissioner Lahman, Commissioner Mortenson, Commissioner Bucholz, Kyle Westergard, Commissioner Rogness, and ESGR Assistant Director Ron Lindgren Image Courtesy of Otter Tail County
(Press Release courtesy of Otter Tail County)
Otter Tail County, MN– Otter Tail County’s commitment to supporting Guard and Reserve members has been recognized by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) with the prestigious Patriot Award.
This accolade, presented at the Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners’ meeting on March 12, 2024, highlights County leadership’s dedication to fostering a supportive work environment for military personnel.
Region 1 ESGR Assistant Director Ron Lindgren, representing ESGR, presented the award to Kurt Mortenson, Chair of the Board of Commissioners.
Mortenson is a former Assistant County Attorney with nearly 30 years of service to Otter Tail County.
In response to the recognition, Mortenson highlighted the value that Guard and Reserve members bring to Otter Tail County, appreciating their unique skills and leadership,
“We are honored to receive the Patriot Award, which underscores our appreciation for the invaluable contributions of Guard and Reserve members to Otter Tail County. Their dedication and leadership enhance our organization in countless ways.”
Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) shares that the Patriot Award is a testament to individual supervisors’ support of Guard and Reserve members within an organization.
It recognizes leadership’s role in accommodating flexible schedules, providing time off for deployment, and granting leaves of absence as needed.
Land and Resource Assistant Director Kyle Westergard, a recently retired military servicemember with nearly 42 years of active and reserve duty, nominated Otter Tail County for this honor.
Westergard, who has had a successful career spanning 35 years at Otter Tail County, emphasized the County’s welcoming and supportive work culture,
“I nominated Otter Tail County because of their unwavering support for Guard and Reserve members. Their commitment to providing a flexible and supportive work environment is commendable.”
Otter Tail County expressed gratitude to Region 1 ESGR Assistant Director Ron Lindgren and ESGR for the Patriot Award.
With this recognition, Otter Tail County reaffirms its commitment to supporting military personnel and fostering an inclusive workplace environment.
Otter Tail County encourages Guard and Reserve members to consider career opportunities within the organization.