JACKSONVILLE, Fla. July 20, 2026 – Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense program, announces JWB Real Estate Capital signed a Statement of Support for the Guard and Reserve at a Patriot Award event May 26, 2026. Tasha Newton, a JWB supervisor who also serves as a First Class Petty Officer in the United States Navy Reserve, submitted JWB for the recognition.
The Statement of Support confirms JWB’s companies join other employers in pledging:
- We fully recognize, honor and comply with the Uniformed Services Employment and Re-Employment Rights Act (USERRA).
- We will provide our managers and supervisors with the tools they need to effectively manage employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve.
- We appreciate the values, leadership and unique skills service members bring to the workforce and will encourage opportunities to hire Guardsmen, Reservists and Veterans.
- We will continually recognize and support our country’s service members and their families, in peace, in crises and in war.
“Today, supportive employers are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s Guard and Reserve units. Many Florida employers provide support above and beyond their legal requirements by law by offering pay-differential to offset the loss of wages, and extension of health care benefits, which complement coverage provided by the military, when their employees mobilize,” said Florida Employer Support for the Guard and Reserves Area Chairman Steve Toomey.
When asked about the criteria, Toomey said, “By meeting the Statement of Support criteria, these organizations pledge to stand proudly with its Guard and Reserve employees, who continue to answer their nation’s call to support our communities at home and critical missions throughout the world. Their sacrifices are essential to the strength of our nation.”
ESGR is a Department of Defense program that develops and promotes supportive work environments for service members in the National Guard and Reserve through outreach, recognition, and educational opportunities that increase awareness of applicable laws. ESGR also provides assistance in resolving conflicts between Service members and their employers.