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ESGR Ombudsman Services

The ESGR Ombudsmen Services Program was established to address potential problems arising among the nation's employers regarding the phasing out of the "draft" or conscription of people into the military by the Selective Service, and the establishment of the all-volunteer force. There was concern that the nation's employers, who were used to some of their employees serving in the National Guard and Reserve as an alternative to compulsory active duty service, might question the necessity of such service in a purely voluntary military system. The Ombudsmen Services Program was established in response. It provides information, counseling and informal mediation of issues relating to compliance with the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act.

Trained ESGR volunteers and the Ombudsmen Services national staff are available to promptly respond to inquiries and conflicts presented by employees or employers.

More than 95 percent of all such requests for assistance are resolved in this informal process. Many problems result from poor communication between employers and their employees or from a lack of familiarization with the rights and responsibilities of each as defined by law.

Ombudsmen are not attorneys, although some volunteers do practice law. They try to find an acceptable outcome for all parties involved. Their services are free of charge, and there are several ways to contact ESGR if you have a complaint about your employer. You may:
  • This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it the Minnesota ESGR Committee
  • Call 800-336 4590 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it  the National Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve in Washington, D.C.
  • Submit a complaint here