On January 1,  Massachusetts ESGR PSS David St. Germain, presided over the first ESGR event of 2008. Robert Carmody, owner of BBS Tree Experts of Kingston was the recipient of the Above and Beyond Award for outstanding support of their military members.  A small five employee operation Mar. Carmody, a Vietnam Veteran has one current employee in the National Guard and another one awaiting basic training.  Specialist Jason Carver, member of HHC/ 101 Engineers, Mass. Army National Guard nominated Mr Carmody for a Patriot Award a few months back, in the nomination he stated that his boss, Bob Carmody, was a model employer who looked after his people, especially those in the military, he encourages and supports Specialist  Carver' military membership, and was the individual most responsible for Carver's enlisting in the National Guard.  During a recent deployment to Kosovo, Mr. Carmody kept in constant touch with Carver, and provided him with anything he needed.  Carmody also was present at both his embarkation and homecoming ceremony's.  BBS Tree Service is also a signatory of the Statement of Support. Specialist Carver had it right, Mr. Carmody is truly an example of a patriotic American employer.