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By NOAH WORTHAM | Managing Editor

Shelby County Sheriff John Samaniego recently received the honor of being awarded the Patriotic Employer Award from the Alabama Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve.

Samaniego was nominated for the accolade by 1st Lt. Michael “Alex” Davis who serves as a sheriff’s deputy and is a member of the Alabama Army National Guard. Davis also serves with the 440th Chemical, Biological and Radiological and Nuclear Company in Clanton.

According to the ESGR, the Patriot Award is a reflection of the efforts made to support citizen warriors through a wide range of measures, including flexible schedules, time off prior to and after deployment, caring for families and granting leaves of absence if needed.

Davis recently joined Maj. Clayton Smith with the Army Reserve’s Deployment Support Command in presenting the award to Samaniego.

“We are incredibly grateful to work for a Sheriff who is so supportive of the National Guard and Reserve members on our team,” Davis said in his nomination of Samaniego. “ It is truly inspiring to know that our military service is valued and recognized here at the sheriff’s office.  The fact that our membership is actively rewarded and seen as a special asset, is a testament to the supportive environment we have. We are especially thankful for the understanding and flexibility shown when we receive short-notice deployments.”

Davis said it is a privilege to serve the community as a law enforcement officer and as a member of the National Guard and that they are fortunate to have an employer who values both.

“We appreciate Sheriff Samaniego’s dedication to the safety and well-being of the citizens of Shelby County, as well as what he has done at the national level,” Davis said. “He is more than deserving of this prestigious award from ESGR and the Department of Defense.”