MACHIAS – CES Inc. received the Patriotic Employer Award on Aug. 14 from the Maine Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve.

Maj. Andrew J. Pottle of the U.S. Army Reserves, currently on deployment to Iraq, is a surveyor and the manager of the CES Machias office – a branch of the Brewer-based firm. He nominated CES in Machias for the award based on the company’s support of his service in the Reserves and in Iraq.

At the award ceremony, Russ Coltart of the support committee explained the award’s purpose and history. He said that nearly half of today’s military personnel are U.S. National Guard and Reserve members.

“Even though Federal law protects their jobs while they are serving their country, some employees endure harassment from supervisors and co-workers, and-or lose wages, benefits and retirement contributions. The Patriotic Employer Award was created to recognize employers who are exemplary supporters and offer extended pay, allowances and continued benefits,” Coltart said.

Major Pottle has served in Iraq since October 2004 as commander of his Reserve unit. In the nomination documents, he wrote, “CES has made numerous accommodations for my military duty. They have not only supported me while I’m away, but extended their support to my family. In my eyes they are real patriots.”

CES Inc. and its employees also have supported the rest of his Reserve unit, and Iraqi children. They have sent several shipments of toys and school supplies to Pottle for distribution to local children. They have sent his Reserve unit several care packages filled with such luxuries as lip balm, socks, disposable razors, toiletries, small bandages, flashlights, batteries and playing cards.

On behalf of his Reserve unit and the children, Pottle thanked his coworkers for their support via postcards, e-mails and photos that are posted in the CES lobby for everyone to see.

To obtain more information about the Maine Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, or to become a volunteer member, call (800) 336-4590 or visit www.esgr.mil.