Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...

Rosie Morton of Vortex Cold Storage in Albert Lea on Thursday was recognized by the Office of the Secretary of Defense’s Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve with the Patriot Award, which reflects the efforts made th support citizen warriors through things like flexible schedules, time off prior to and after deployment, caring for families and granting leaves of absence if needed.

Morton was nominated by Colton Reed, who said that Morton and Vortex Cold Storage has been the only supervisor and company that has ever worked with him on his National Guard schedule.

“Whether it is short notice leaves or understanding time off to rest, she makes sure I am provided with that time,” a press release stated.

Morton said she appreciates Reed’s dedication to Vortex and the staff, as he comes in early or stays late as needed.

He has been employed at Vortex for close to 2 1/2 years, and to have him as her lead to be the pace setter for the night and the person she can rely on is something any supervisor could want in an employee.

“He has shown tremendous growth throughout his employment, and I see constant improvements and maturity come from him,” Morton said. “It makes it a pleasure to work with him each night.”

She said she was proud to know she was nominated and given the award, not only for herself and her career, but also for the company and for Reed.

“For him to be in the position where he feels supported and respected enough to nominate me made me feel honored,” she said. “I have a great respect for the men and women serving in our military. They put everything on the line for us, so the least I can ever do for any service member that is employed here past, present or future is to help them here at home. This award showed me that I am playing my part and making an impact, and that will be one of my greatest accomplishments.”