The Ohio Committee of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense office, announced that Kevin Hilty and Diamond Manufacturing, Bluffton, were recently honored.

Hilty, a Diamond employee, received the Patriot Award in recognition of support of its employee serving in the Marine Corps Reserve.

Steve Koper, Ohio ESGR State Chair said, "The Patriot Award was created by ESGR to  recognize persons who provide outstanding patriotic support and cooperation to their employees, who like the citizen warriors before them, have answered their nation's call to serve."

Hilty was nominated for being highly supportive of the U.S. Marine Corps Reserve by Sergeant Wesley Madaj, assigned to the 1st Battalion 24th Marines Regiment, Michigan.  

Madaj said, "Mr. Hilty has been exceedingly understanding that my duty to my country comes first and supports my service without reservation. Mr. Hilty has exuded a patriotism in his support and understanding of employees who serve their country. The Marine Corps Reserve is very unique and dynamic force, and having employers like Mr. Hilty who understand its uniqueness is essential to every USMC unit."

ESGR, a Department of Defense office, seeks to foster a culture where all employers support and value the employment and military service of members of the National Guard and Reserve in the United States.