DoD honors Danos for staff support

Eric Danos and Reed Pere’ – Danos’ executive vice president and production services division manager, respectively – were recently given the Patriot Award by the state Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR). Company CEO and President Hank Danos was given the “Above and Beyond Award,” in recognition of Danos’ support of U.S. Coast Guard Reservist Douglas Kunkle.

At the suggestion of Pere’, Danos covered Kunkle’s portion of the company healthcare benefits so his wife and two sons – ages 5 and 4 weeks old – would be covered while he was deployed. In addition, Pere’ arranged for a significant stipend to be paid the duration of Kunkle’s deployment to cover a loss in wages, which the reservist incurred from his military service.

“Today, supportive employers are critical to maintaining the strength and readiness of the nation’s National Guard and Reserve units,” said John F. Pugh Jr., Louisiana state ESGR chairman. “Many Louisiana employers provide ‘Above and Beyond’ support with pay differential to offset the loss of wages, and extension of healthcare benefits, which complement coverage provided by the military, when their employees are mobilized.”

Pugh asked that all Louisiana employers review and amend their human resources policies to ensure compliance with the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act.

“By signing the Statement of Support, Mr. Hank Danos is sending a clear message to the employees of Danos that while they are serving their country, they do not have to worry about their civilian jobs.”

Danos is also a four-time U.S. Department of the Interior SAFE Award recipient.