WPS is honored for outstanding support of Air Force Reserve

WPS Health Solutions recently was recognized by the Air Force Reserve Command for outstanding support as an employer of Air Force Reserve Citizen Airmen.

President and CEO Mike Hamerlik represented WPS at the May 20 employer appreciation event at Keesler Air Force Base in Mississippi. The 403rd Wing hosted 15 employers of Air Force Reservists from across the nation.

Citizen Airmen nominated their employers for the event, which gave employers the opportunity to learn about the missions of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), Air Force Reserve and 403rd Wing.

Rob Palmer, Vice President of Government Relations at WPS, nominated WPS for the recognition and he also attended the event. An Air Force Reservist who was on active duty for 10 years, Rob came to WPS in 2015 from the Air Force Reserve Command, where he was Director of Public Affairs. Rob continues to serve in the Air Force Reserve assigned to United States Transportation Command at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois.

“Even though I’m eligible for retirement from the Reserve, Mike encouraged me to continue to serve,” said Palmer, who holds the rank of colonel. “The support I have received from Mike, the executive staff, and the Veteran Enhancement Team has been incredible.”

Employer support is crucial to Reserve service, said Col. Frank L. Amodeo, 403rd Wing commander. “We can’t do it without your support,” he said.

The 403rd Wing is an Air Force Reserve tenant unit at Keesler that provides weather reconnaissance in support of the Department of Commerce, as well as tactical airlift to transport supplies, equipment and personnel in theaters of operation.

During a tour, employer representatives learned about the capabilities of the WC-130J and C-130J, the 41st Aerial Port Squadron, and 81st Medical Group and Keesler Medical Center.

The 403rd Wing is one of the Reserve and National Guard units that comprise 38 percent of the nation’s available military manpower.

ESGR is a Department of Defense organization established to recognize outstanding employer support, increase awareness of the law, and resolve conflicts between reservists and employers through mediation.