Patriot Award for local doctor

Patriot Award for local doctor

Gaither- Davis recognized for support of guard, reservists

news@theeveningtimes.com

Dr. LaTeasha Gaither-Davis was surprised by Army Reserve Major Jacquelyn Gilbert with a Patriot award Tuesday afternoon. The Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) is a Department of Defense program working with employers, reservists ,military leadership and volunteers to resolve conflicts arising from and employee’s military commitment. There was no conflict at the West Memphis physical therapists office, in fact, Gilbert nominated Gaither-Davis for the award.

“She is a patriot,” said Gilbert. “She helped me and my family during my most recent nine month de- ployment. She even made sure my husband ate well while I was gone.”

ESGR Volunteer Elvin Tate explained the considerations for the award to the incredulous doctor.

“The Patriot Award reflects the efforts made to support citizen warriors through a wide-range of measures including flexible schedules, time off prior to and after deployment, caring for families, and granting leaves of absence if needed,” said Tate. “This is the first in a series of possible awards which could wind up with a national award presented at the Pentagon.”

Gilbert said her boss was all of that and more.

“Thank you,” said Dr.

Gaither-Davis. “I can’t believe

this.”

By John Rech