HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah — The 419th Fighter Wing named UPS its Employer of the Year during its annual awards ceremony Feb. 11.
Each year, the 419th FW recognizes a civilian employer who has shown exceptional support of reservists who work in their organization. These employers go above and beyond the requirements of the law, making it easier for reservists to balance their civilian jobs, family, and military service.
“We simply could not successfully serve as reservists without the support of our civilian employers,” said Col. David Smith, 419th FW commander.
UPS employs several Airmen from the 419th FW and 36 reservists and Guardsmen across Utah. The company excels in accommodating Reserve component employees and is known for honoring veterans throughout the year.
“UPS has treated me like family for more than 30 years,” said Senior Master Sgt. Joel Gurr, a reservist in the 419th Logistics Readiness Squadron and full-time UPS employee. “They have always shown a genuine interest in what I do to serve our country.”
During Gurr’s time with the company, UPS allowed him to take nearly four years of military leave to serve his country, continuing all of his health, retirement, and legal benefits. If his military pay was less than his civilian pay, UPS made up the difference.
Former winners of Employer of the Year include Delta Air Lines and Zions Bank.
