Contributed photo
Pictured above: Front row: Local ESGR Representative Ron Lindgren, Lois Robinson, MN ESGR Region 1 Chair, Commissioner Kurt Mortenson, ESGR State Chair Chad Sacket, Sargeant First Class Ryan Raftevold of the local Army National Guard, Commissioner Wayne Johnson and Veterans Service Officer Robb Emerson. Back row: Deputy Sheriff Reid Reinbold, County Commissioner Lee Rogness, Commissioner Bob Lahman, Commissioner Dan Bucholz and Sheriff Barry Fitzgibbons.

The Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), a Department of Defense office, has awarded Otter Tail County with the distinguished Seven Seals Award in recognition of its exceptional support for service members of the Guard and Reserve. This prestigious award acknowledges the county’s commitment to fostering a supportive work environment for military personnel and their families. This is the first Seven Seals Award presented in Minnesota this year.

The Seven Seals Award, named for the seven service branches with reserves, is given at the discretion of the ESGR State Chair to recognize significant individual or organizational achievements that promote the ESGR mission of supporting reserve service members. Otter Tail County’s policies and practices involving military personnel have emphasized flexibility and understanding when balancing the demands of military service and civilian employment.

“We present this award to honor the leadership and service of Otter Tail County. Thank you for all you do, and from what I have seen and heard, this is well deserved,” said ESGR State Chairman Chad Sacket as he presented the award to Otter Tail County 

The award read: Seven Seals Award presented to Otter Tail County Commissioners for meritorious leadership and initiative in support of the men and women who serve America in the National Guard and Reserve.

“We appreciate the award. The employees who serve are great employees, too. Empowering them to serve allows our employees to gain skills that they bring back to the county,” Commissioner Wayne Johnson (District 2).

In March of 2024, Otter Tall County received the Patriot Award from ESGR, a testament to Otter Tail County’s leadership in its sustained efforts to support military personnel.