On April 8, 2009, ELROD was recognized for its support of those in the National Guard and Reserve by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (“ESGR”), an agency of the U.S. Department of Defense, by receiving the ESGR’s “Above and Beyond” award. 

ESGR is a Department of Defense organization that seeks to promote a culture in which all American Employers support and value the military service of their employees.  The “Above and Beyond” award is given by state and county ESGR committees to recognize employers who have gone above and beyond the legal requirements for granting leave and providing support for military duty by their employees.

ELROD also learned that it was also named a finalist for ESGR’s Freedom Award. This award, ESGR's most prestigious, is presented annually to an employer by the Secretary of Defense. It recognizes unique support to National Guard and Reserve employees.

After the presentation, David Elrod signed a Department of Defense Statement of Support, which reiterates ELROD’s commitment to its employees who serve.