Penske Branch Service Manager Gerard “Gerry” Pelsak recently received the Patriot Award from the Department of Defense’s Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) for his support of an associate serving in the Army National Guard.

The Patriot Award reflects the efforts that supervisors and managers make to support their employees through a range of measures, including flexible schedules, time off for deployment and granting leaves of absence as needed.

“Gerry is a true leader within our organization,” said Robert Hayes, a branch manager at Penske. “Gerry has a commitment to supporting service members, and this is why he deserves this award.”

Terrel Tyson, a maintenance supervisor and active member of the Army National Guard, nominated Pelsak for the award. Tyson attends annual training and can be away from his job for several weeks per year.

“Gerry has cultivated a service department of integrity, pride and respect,” said Hayes. “It’s an honor being his teammate.”

Service members who want to nominate their supervisor or manager for an award through the ESGR can visit the ESGR Employer Awards page for more information.

Penske is a top 100 Military-Friendly Employer on a list published by Victory Media, publisher of G.I. Jobs and Military Spouse magazines.

By Tony Kozuch