[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 151 (Tuesday, November 15, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E2362]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




  RECOGNIZING AND COMMENDING CONTINUING DEDICATION AND COMMITMENT OF 
   EMPLOYERS OF MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL GUARD AND THE OTHER RESERVE 
                               COMPONENTS

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                               speech of

                         HON. RICHARD W. POMBO

                             of california

                    in the house of representatives

                       Tuesday, November 8, 2005

  Mr. POMBO. Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to relate the experience of 
Major Jeff Williamson, an employee of General Mills who serves in the 
Marine Forces Reserve. He was called to duty in February 2002 and sent 
to Camp Pendleton for anti-terrorism operations training. In March 
2003, Major Williamson was sent to Iraq for initial operations, and 
remained until June 2003. During his service abroad, General Mills made 
up the difference to match what his regular salary had been while 
employed with the company back home. He and his family's medical and 
dental benefits remained unchanged during this time as well. When asked 
if he had any comments on how he felt about General Mills treatment of 
him during that time, he said he had not given that question much 
thought, adding that, that in itself, says a lot. Major Williamson 
commented that he did not have to worry about a thing as he and his 
family were well taken care of. In January, he will be considered for 
the position of Lt. Colonel. He is married to Tanja and they have two 
lovely little girls.

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