Reggie Mitchell, Thornton Middle School principal, left, and Lyndon Jones, Thornton teacher and current member of the U.S. Army Reserves, right, pose for a photo with Mitchell’s ESGR Patriot Award certificate. Jones nominated Mitchell for the award due to Mitchell’s high level of support for employees’ military service.
Sept. 20, 2022—Reggie Mitchell, Thornton Middle School principal, was recently named a recipient of the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Patriot Award, a recognition of Thornton and Mitchell’s strong support of employees’ military service.
Mitchell was nominated for the prestigious award by Lyndon Jones, Thornton teacher and current member of the U.S. Army Reserves.
“It was very touching to realize I was not only nominated but also selected for this great honor,” Mitchell said. “This award is something I didn’t realize I was receiving, which makes it even more special. Mr. Jones and I have a long history together and it’s an honor to really show what we do here at Thornton Middle School.”
Elizabeth Jones, Thornton teacher, is currently on active reserve duty for the U.S. Coast Guard. Jones has been on active duty for approximately two years.
In addition to Lyndon Jones, Thornton is also home to teacher Elizabeth Jones, who is currently on active reserve duty for the U.S. Coast Guard.
“We dearly miss Elizabeth here at Thornton, but we know that she’s currently serving and making sure our country is safe,” Mitchell said. “We appreciate her service so much.”
As a recipient of the Patriot Award, Mitchell received a certificate and an accompanying lapel pin.
ESGR, a Department of Defense agency, was created in 1972 when the U.S. transitioned to an all-volunteer military force. ESGR’s mission is to develop and promote a culture in which all American employers support and value the military service of their employees. The Patriot Award reflects the efforts made to support employees through a wide range of measures including flexible schedules, time off before and after deployment, caring for families and granting leaves of absence if needed. Approximately one-half of the U.S. Armed Forces is comprised of members of the Guard and Reserve.
