We may not always agree on the "wheres" and "whys", but we should all support the "whos", regardless of our politics. Sorry for the length, but this was in my company email yesterday, and I thought it was worth sharing:<br /><br />October 21, 2004<br /><br />AEP Again Enhances Military Leave Policy<br /><br />For the second year in a row, AEP will enhance its military leave policy for those employees serving in the Reserves or National Guard who are called to active duty in emergency situations. Retroactive to April 1, 2004, these employees will be paid the difference between their military pay and their AEP pay for up to two years while serving on active duty. They and their dependents also will continue to be eligible for most AEP benefit and work/life programs, including medical, dental and retirement savings plans over the two-year period. <br /><br />Prior to April of 2003, AEP's military leave policy provided for full pay and benefits through the end of the month following the month an individual was called to active duty. Last year, the company enhanced its policy, providing a pay differential and access to most benefit plans for up to one year. <br /><br />"When last year's military leave enhancements were made, few, if any, reservists or guard members were being deployed for more than a year," said Mary Cofer, director - Personnel Services and EEO. "Unfortunately, eight employees and their families are now experiencing financial difficulties because they have been recalled or their service has been extended after serving more than a year."<br /><br />Mike Morris, chairman, president and CEO, said, "Employees who are called to active duty in emergency situations face potential danger on a daily basis. They should not have to worry about the loss of income or a disruption in their family's healthcare coverage back home. Therefore, we felt it was critically important that we extend our policy to take care of those employees who are taking care of us by defending their country."<br /><br />Following enhancement of the military leave policy last year, AEP was recognized with several awards. In September of 2003, the company was presented a "My Boss is a Patriot Award," and in October of last year was given a "Patriotic Employer" award. Both awards are sponsored by the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Defense and recognize deserving employers whose support and goodwill are important to retaining highly skilled and qualified members of the National Guard and Reserve. <br /><br />The company also received numerous positive comments from employees following last year's change in policy. Said one: "It is extremely satisfying to know that AEP is offering this level of flexibility to employees that also provide service to our country. This action will boost the morale of all employees."<br /><br />Another employee commented: "I applaud this very positive step. Only through such total support for employees that are called to service can we display the title 'American' Electric Power."<br /><br />Since the 2003 policy was adopted, the company has provided nearly half a million dollars (excluding benefit costs) to the 67 employees who are Reservists and/or Guard members. Currently, 23 AEP employees remain on active military duty.<br /><br />Celebrations recognizing the sacrifices made by those AEP employees who are serving or have served in the military are planned throughout the system on Veteran's Day, November 11.
