To all:

I realize that as part of my December Monthly update to the field I hadalready sent an earlier note wishing everyone a very special holidaygreeting. However, before we all begin our various travels to visit friendsand families, or to just stay home and enjoy the holiday's, I wanted toagain wish each and every one of you on the ESGR Team a very Happy Holiday!

I also read a note from Derwood Boyles, Chair, Mississippi, that I thoughtwas superb and very reflective of what we are doing during this time of theyear. Derwood, I hope you don't mind that I too use it as it truly capturedmy thoughts as I prepared my Holiday Message this year.

Derwood wrote, "Early in the History of this country if a skirmish began,the owner and/or employer had to close his store or shop, grab his rifle andsolve the problem. Today it is more complicated. We have volunteers who goto the defense of our country while our employers can stay home and runtheir businesses. We all work as a team. Our role in ESGR is important aswe help our troops and their families while they are away from " the shop"and we encourage their employers while they "hold down the fort" withouttheir valued employee's. Let us keep both groups of patriots in ourthoughts and prayers during this Christmas season. Our country is stillgreat because citizens like you and I are willing to do our part to keep itgreat. Thank you for all you have done and will do. We ARE making adifference."

I couldn't agree more. Folks, regardless of what the newspapers and TV newsreports on occasion, we, ESGR, are making a difference. And that"difference" is from the hard work and true devotion to our mission coupledwith unbridled service in support of our Guard and Reserve, and theiremployers. We have had many challenges in this past year. However, we metthem face-up, and were highly successful! As I've said so many times, andwill say again, were it not for you, our volunteers, and our staff in theField Committees, we would not have an ESGR!!

Finally, I again want to thank each and every one of your for all that youhave done in making 2007 a great year. I also want to personally say "ThankYOU" for your support of me as "your" Executive Director. I continue to behonored to serve with great individuals within a great organization doinggreat things for our Nation.

Please be safe during the holiday's, and be especially careful whiletraveling.

Merry Christmas, Happy Chanukkah, and Happy New Year to you all.

And,thanks for all you do!