County honored for supporting Guard, Reserve members

Contributed photo
Commissioner Robert Lahman, Commissioner Kurt Mortenson, Commissioner Dan Bucholz, Kyle Westergard, Commissioner Rogness, and ESGR Assistant Director Ron Lindgren.

By Robert Williams

Editor, Frazee-Vergas Forum

Otter Tail County’s commitment to supporting Guard and Reserve members was recognized by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) with the prestigious Patriot Award on Tuesday, March 12 in Fergus Falls. 

This accolade highlights the county leadership’s dedication to fostering a supportive work environment for military personnel.

Region 1 ESGR Assistant Director Ron Lindgren presented the award to Kurt Mortenson, Chair of the Board of Commissioners. Mortenson is a former Assistant County Attorney with nearly 30 years of service to Otter Tail County.

In response to the recognition, Mortenson highlighted the value that Guard and Reserve members bring to Otter Tail County, appreciating their unique skills and leadership. 

“We are honored to receive the Patriot Award, which underscores our appreciation for the invaluable contributions of Guard and Reserve members to Otter Tail County,” said Mortenson. “Their dedication and  leadership enhance our organization in countless ways.”

The Patriot Award is a testament to individual supervisors’ support of Guard and Reserve members within an organization. It recognizes leadership’s role in accommodating flexible schedules, providing time off for deployment, and granting leaves of absence as needed.

Land and Resource Assistant Director Kyle Westergard, a recently retired military servicemember with nearly 42 years of active and reserve duty, nominated Otter Tail County for this honor. 

Westergard, who has had a successful career spanning 35 years at Otter Tail County, emphasized the county’s welcoming and supportive work culture. 

“I nominated Otter Tail County because of their unwavering support for Guard and Reserve members,” he said. “Their commitment to providing a flexible and supportive work environment is commendable.”

Otter Tail County expressed gratitude to Region1 ESGR Assistant Director Ron Lindgren and  ESGR for the Patriot Award. With this recognition, Otter Tail County reaffirms its commitment to supporting military personnel and fostering an inclusive workplace environment. Otter Tail County encourages Guard and Reserve members to consider career opportunities within the organization.