The Massachusetts Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve organization (ESGR) recently presented the Above and Beyond Award to Bose Corporation. Bose was recognized for supporting Steve Rooney of the Noise Reduction Technology Group (NRTG), who has been serving as an infantry company commander with the Massachusetts National Guard in Iraq . Steve and his troops nominated Bose NRTG for supplying books, magazines, candy, toys for local children and many other items not easily available to the soldiers. The December holiday package included Red Sox World Championship hats for the entire company, because nearly all of Steve’s people reside in Massachusetts .  

Thomas P. Boyle Jr., state chairman (acting) of the Massachusetts ESGR, presented the Above and Beyond Award to Sean Garrett, general manager of NRT. “Many men and women serving in our armed forces are balancing military service, family responsibilities and careers, so employer support is critical,” said Mr. Boyle. “Bose has stepped up to this challenge. We thank you for your patriotic support.”

“We are honored by ESGR’s recognition of our efforts to support Steve Rooney and his soldiers,” said Mr. Garrett.

After the presentation, Sean signed the ESGR “Statement of Support”, a ceremonial document indicating that Bose® will continue to support their employees serving in the Guard and Reserve.  

Other guests included Thomas G. Kelley, Medal of Honor recipient, retired U.S. Navy captain and Massachusetts native; Thomas F. Hall, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Reserve Affairs; Brigadier General Robert Catalanotti , U.S. Army Reserve; Brigadier General Thomas Sellars, Massachusetts Army National Guard and representatives of the U.S. Navy, Marine Corps and Massachusetts ESGR.

After the presentation, guests enjoyed lunch, a demonstration of Bose® active noise reduction technology at The Reservoir and a tour of the military headset manufacturing area at Park Place .