SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- The Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Boss Day is more than just an event—it’s a unique opportunity for 932nd Airlift Wing Citizen Airmen to showcase their skills, dedication, and critical roles in our nation’s defense.
“ESGR Boss Day is an event that brings together Citizen Airmen civilian employers, honorary commanders, and local civic leaders to build relationships and understanding of reserve military readiness requirements and build relationships and understanding,” said Laurie Silvey, ESGR Illinois State Chair. “This was the largest ESGR employer event with the 932nd by far and was a benchmark for an excellently executed ESGR Boss Day.”
Over 30 employers and civic leaders from across the nation attended this special day, gaining firsthand experience of the vital mission their employees contribute to as members of the Air Force Reserve.
“ESGR Boss Day was amazing, and the 932nd public affairs office organized and led a great event,” said Chris Glover, Arkema Senior Vice President NA Group Manufacturing and civilian employer of Col. Dori Mansur, 932nd Mission Support Group commander. “I learned a lot, and I was impressed by the amount of readiness training a reservist accomplishes on their drill weekend.”
For our Citizen Airmen, balancing civilian careers with military service is no small feat. ESGR Boss Day allows employers to see their employees' commitment and professionalism to both worlds. Through hands-on experiences, tours, and direct engagement, employers witness the crucial work performed by the 932nd AW and how their support empowers our Citizen Airmen to succeed both on the job and in their military duties.
“Being an employer of one of 932nd AW traditional reservists, Master Sgt. Robert Wilmes, I now understand what Robert does during UTA drill weekend and how he pivots again Monday morning to report back to his job, where we’re making health care simpler, more accessible, and more affordable for people,” said Gazala Mohammed, Trade Relations WISE senior lead and national community outreach lead. “Together we make an extraordinary impact every day in our own ways. Thank you for your service to our Nation!”
The relationships built through ESGR Boss Day strengthen the partnership between civilian employers and the Air Force Reserve. Employers like Mohammed also experience unique aspects of the Airmen’s training firsthand.
“It was an amazing experience seeing Master Sgt. Robert Wilmes in action with his security operations teams during UTA drill weekend,” Mohammed added. “The weapons simulator experience and C-40 aircraft ride were mind-blowing.”
These connections are essential to fostering mutual appreciation and understanding of our Citizen Airmen's dual responsibilities. “ESGR Boss Day was an enjoyable and educational day,” said Linette Warnecke, 932nd Operations Group honorary commander. “While our flight on the C-40C was icing on the cake, every aspect of the day was interesting, enlightening, and enjoyable.”
“Every honorary commander activity that I’ve been able to attend, including boss day, has taught me more about the base and the responsibilities, importance, and dedication of our reservists,” Warnecke added. “I am so honored and appreciative of the opportunity to be the honorary commander for the 932nd Operations Group.”
By attending ESGR Boss Day, employers become allies in the 932nd mission, supporting our Citizen Airmen to be the best they can be in both their civilian and military careers. “ESGR Boss Day was a great day for traditional reserve employers, civic leaders, and honorary commanders to immerse themselves in the 932nd AW mission,” said Col. Jeffrey Smith, 932nd AW Commander. “We truly can’t do our mission without the support of our employers, community leaders, and honorary commanders.”
“We are extremely grateful for all they do to take care of our Citizen Airmen,” Smith added.
Together, we build stronger communities and a stronger nation.