[Congressional Record Volume 149, Number 2 (Wednesday, January 8, 2003)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E57]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




                          HONORING ALBERTSONS

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. MICHAEL K. SIMPSON

                                of idaho

                    in the house of representatives

                       Wednesday, January 8, 2003

  Mr. SIMPSON. Mr. Speaker, it is my honor to recognize and 
congratulate Albertsons Corporation for receiving the State Chairman 
Award from the Employer Support for Guard and Reserve.
  Who puts their lives on the line for us? Who provides the combat 
ready forces that will help protect our national security interests? 
With the support of their employers, members of the National Guard and 
Reserve are there when we need them.
  The National Guard and Reserve provide half of our nation's uniformed 
military forces. In fact, some military skills are found only in the 
Reserve components. The Secretary of Defense will call Reserve forces 
to serve along side their Active duty counterparts anytime the United 
States is conducting a significant military operation.
  Now, more than ever, we as a nation are relying on our Reserve 
Members. Because they are Reserve and this is not their regular, full-
time job, it is essential that employers support them. That's why I am 
so proud of Albertsons.
  Albertsons has gone beyond the letter and the spirit of the law. 
After September 11th terrorist attacks, Albertsons implemented an 
enhanced military leave policy. Albertsons now provides wage 
differentials; continued health care coverage and retirement plan 
participation. Albertsons even set up a ``hot line'' to support 
impacted employees and their families. The company is a leader in 
reinforcing and enhancing its corporate policies in support of National 
Guard activities.
  Because of this voluntary, proactive action that Albertsons took to 
assist our Reserve, they are receiving the State Chairman Award. This 
award is presented on behalf of the Assistant Secretary of Defense for 
Reserve Affairs in recognizing ``outstanding'' contributions in support 
of Reserve Forces made by individuals, organizations or employers. Each 
award signifies extraordinary endowments that materially affect the 
Reserves.
  Albertsons deserves this award and I'm proud to acknowledge them for 
receiving it. Thank you, Albertsons, for supporting your country in 
such a patriotic manner.

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