Date: August 1, 2012
Contact: Tom Bullock
571-372-0709

First Data CEO Signs Statement of Support

Atlanta – Mr. Jim Rebholz, ESGR National Chairman, joined First Data Corporation CEO Jonathan J. Judge today at an event supporting Veterans and Reservist employment.  During the event, Mr. Judge signed a Statement of Support for the Guard and Reserve on behalf of First Data.

First Data joins thousands of America’s employers in pledging:

• We appreciate the values, leadership and unique skills service members bring to the workforce and will encourage opportunities to hire Guardsmen, Reservists and Veterans.
• Continually recognize and support our country’s service members and their families in peace, in crises and in war.
• Fully recognize, honor and enforce the Uniformed Services Employment and Re-Employment Rights Act (USERRA). 
• Ensure that managers and supervisors will have the tools they need to effectively manage those employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve.

Mr. Rebholz said, “Today, supportive employers like First Data are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the Nation’s Guard and Reserve units. First Data leads the way in ensuring their human resource policies go above and beyond by incorporating policies supportive of Guard and Reserve service. For example First Data’s support complements military service, providing pay differential to offset the loss of wages, and extending health care benefits while their employees are mobilized.”

Rebholz continued, “First Data has consistently shown broad support for its service member employees, evidenced by the numerous Department of Defense awards they have received, including the prestigious Secretary of Defense Employer Support Freedom Award, the Nation’s highest award for supportive employers. Today’s signing guarantees strong support for employee service in the Guard and Reserve into the future.”

“We take great pride in employing military personnel and those who have served our country, and we recognize the heroic sacrifices these individuals and their families make for our freedom,” said Judge. “First Data is committed to those in the military community. We recognize the important role our service members take on for our country, and respect the values, leadership, dedication and unique skills they bring to our global team. We proudly stand behind all of our employees who are Guardsmen, Reservists and Veterans.”

About First Data
Around the world, every second of every day, First Data makes payment transactions secure, fast and easy for merchants, financial institutions and their customers. First Data leverages its vast product portfolio and expertise to drive customer revenue and profitability. Whether the choice of payment is by debit or credit card, gift card, check or mobile phone, online or at the checkout counter, First Data takes every opportunity to go beyond the transaction.

About ESGR
Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, a Department of Defense agency established in 1972, develops and maintains employer support for Guard and Reserve service. ESGR advocates relevant initiatives, recognizes outstanding support, increases awareness of applicable laws, and resolves conflict between service members and employers. Paramount to ESGR's mission is encouraging the employment of Guardsmen and Reservists who bring integrity, global perspective and proven leadership to the civilian workforce.

As the 1.1 million members of the National Guard and Reserve continue to perform an increasing number of unique missions that require extraordinary actions on the part of everyday citizens, ESGR will continue to be the informational agency for the employers of citizen warriors. More information about ESGR Employer Outreach Programs and incredible volunteer opportunities is available at www.esgr.mil or by contacting Tom Bullock, Chief, Employer Outreach, at 571-372-0709, or email tom.bullock@osd.mil.

Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve
4800 Mark Center Drive, Suite 03E25, Alexandria, VA 22350
800-336-4590 www.esgr.mil