Awards and Appreciation

Two CIM supervisors receive Patriot Awards

By Lt. Thomas Lopez

Three men stand by a flag pole at California Institution for Men.
Retired Military veteran Thomas Bell, Chief of Mental Health Dr. Jordan and Licensed Clinical Social Worker Fernando Cruz, who also serves as a Lieutenant in the Army Reserves.

On Feb. 3, Dr. Jordan, Chief of Mental Health, and James DeGroot, Supervising Social Worker, were awarded the Department of Defense Patriot Award by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) Committee.

ESGR is a Department of Defense Program established in 1972 to promote cooperation between reservists and civilian employers.

Licensed Clinical Social Worker Fernando Cruz, a member of the military reserves, nominated both Dr. Jordan and DeGroot.

Cruz wrote to the ESGR Committee explaining how both supervisors have supported him when the military calls for various services. He is able to fulfill his obligation to his commitment to the reserves without worry regarding his employment status.

Retired military veteran Thomas Bell, an ESGR volunteer, presented the award during the Warden’s Executive Staff Meeting.

For more information on the ESGR and their services, visit https://www.esgr.mil/Employers/Statement-of-Support