When army reservist Bill Shockey got word early last year that he was being deployed overseas in support of Operation Enduring Freedom, a major concern was his job. Would he still have it when he returned? How much leave time would he have? Would he still have benefits?

Shockey, a long-time West Virginia University Extension employee from Preston County, was assigned a representative from WVU Human Resources to work with him and his family during his nearly nine-month deployment to Germany.

Linda McDonald was there every step of the way,Shockey said.She was extremely helpful not only to me, but my family. I was able to focus on my miliary duty and avoid many of the distractions and worries related to my job.

For her commitment and efforts, McDonald, who has been with WVU Human Resources since June 1994, is being honored by the National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR). ESGR sponsors an awards program designed to recognize employers for employment policies and practices that are supportive of their employees’participation in the National Guard and Reserve.

The nation’s Guard and Reserve components compromise about 50 percent of our total available military power,said Dan Boroff, local ESGR volunteer as well as Morgantown’s city manager.It is important that we recognize employers who understand the demands of their employee guard and reservists, and go out of their way to assist them when they are activated.

ESGR was established in 1972 by the federal government to promote cooperation and understanding between reserve component members and their civilian employers, and to assist in the resolution of conflicts arising from an employee’s military commitment.

Several University employees were called to active duty in the war against terrorism, and received or continue to receive assistance from WVU ’s HR office.

I am very pleased that Linda is being recognized for her work with our Guard and Reserve employees,said Jim Morris, director of employment/employee relations for WVU Human Resources and McDonald’s supervisor.She does an outstanding job for us. Her work with these employees comes truly from the heart. She takes a personal interest in each one and is always willing to help in whatever way she can.

During deployment, Shockey was assigned as a supply and services staff officer at the headquarters of the U.S. European Command (EUCOM) in Stuttgart. He helped plan for the delivery of fuel, clothing, repair parts, food, water and other items needed by combat forces.

Shockey, who nominated McDonald for the award, says she was not only his liaison while he was awaybut his advocate.

She went above and beyond,Shockey said.She was right there to assist and answer any questions my family or I had. She is truly deserving of this recognition.

ESGR will recognize McDonald with a framed certificate of appreciation during a Monday (March 22) ceremony.