Focus Broadband has been honored with the Pro Patria Award by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), recognizing the company’s support for employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve, according to a news release.

"The Pro Patria Award is the highest recognition given by an ESGR State Committee and highlights Focus Broadband’s commitment to fostering a supportive environment for military service members," the release stated.

Nearly 10% of Focus Broadband's workforce consists of veterans or Guard and Reserve members.

Jason Thompson, who presented the award on behalf of the North Carolina ESGR Committee, stated in the release, “To be eligible for this honor, an employer must have signed a Statement of Support for Guard and Reserve members and previously been recognized with the Above and Beyond Award or be a Patriot Award recipient.”

According to the release, Focus Broadband’s dedication to supporting military employees was first recognized in 2023 when Justin Parsons, director of operations services, received the Patriot Award. Parsons was nominated by Brett Burris, a manager of site operations at Focus Broadband, who was deployed to Kuwait while working as a communication services technician with the company, the release stated.

Keith Holden, CEO of Focus Broadband, stated in the release, “While we take pride in our commitment to supporting veterans, as well as Guard and Reserve members, we consider Focus Broadband fortunate to benefit from the skills, leadership and dedication that those coming from a military background bring to our team.”

ESGR is a Department of Defense volunteer program established in 1972 to foster cooperation between Reserve Component Service members and their civilian employers, according to the release. ESGR’s 54 State Committees recognize employers nationwide with a series of Department of Defense awards presented each year to an outstanding large company, small company and public agency.