El Paso, TX (March 20, 2026) |
GECU and its Executive Vice President and Chief Information Officer, Fernando Ortega, have been recognized by the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) with prestigious Department of War awards honoring organizations and leaders who support employees serving in the National Guard and Reserve.
Representatives from ESGR joined GECU leadership and Navy Reserves leadership to present the awards during a special recognition ceremony at the GECU Operations Center.
GECU received the Above & Beyond Award, which recognizes employers that go the extra mile in supporting Guard and Reserve military service members beyond the legal requirements of the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act through flexible policies, leadership support and a culture that values military service.
Fernando Ortega was honored with the Patriot Award, which recognizes the individual supervisor of an employee currently serving in the Guard or Reserve who provides exceptional support to the military service member and their family. Ortega is a proud U.S. Air Force Veteran with more than 20 years of experience in the credit union industry.
“GECU is honored to be recognized by ESGR and proudly support the military service members who serve our nation,” said Crystal Long, President and CEO at GECU. “It’s important to recognize the tremendous sacrifices our Guard and Reserve military service members make to protect our nation. GECU is also proud to see our Executive Vice President and CIO, Fernando receive the Patriot Award, recognizing his leadership, dedication and commitment to supporting military service members and their families in the workplace.”
The ESGR awards program recognizes employers and supervisors who demonstrate outstanding commitment to supporting the military community who serve in the Guard and Reserve while strengthening national security. Through initiatives that promote understanding and flexibility for military obligations, organizations like GECU help ensure military service members can balance their civilian careers with their military responsibilities.
GECU remains committed to supporting military service members, Veterans and their families through community engagement, employment opportunities and initiatives that recognize the sacrifices made by those who serve.
