The National Guard recently presented 2016-2017 Lindbergh Schools Director of Activities Kit Norton with the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve Patriot Award, recognizing his support of a citizen service member and his family.

Norton was nominated for the award by Assistant Sports Supervisor 1st Lt. Austin Okorn, who serves in the U.S. Army Reserve. The Patriot Award reflects the efforts made to support citizen warriors through a wide range of measures including flexible schedules, time off before and after deployment, caring for families and granting leaves of absence if needed, according to a news release.

In the release, Okorn stated that the unwavering support Norton has provided for him and his family has allowed him to completely focus on the task at hand, whether it is serving Lindbergh or serving his country.

“Having an employer who is sympathetic to the military and the reserve component in particular is invaluable and deserving of recognition,” Okorn stated. “Kit displays the qualities of a compassionate, caring and understanding leader and I will always be grateful for the time I was able to work under his leadership.”