The U.S. Department of Defense recently saluted St. Tammany Health System and STHS Director of Anesthesia and Surgery Chris Connell, recognizing both with awards for their consistent support of employees who serve in the military.
On Monday (Oct. 4, 2021) Connell was presented with the Patriot Award in recognition of his flexibility in accommodating the commitments of the four service members in his 30-person department.
Additionally, St. Tammany Health System President and CEO Joan Coffman accepted the Above and Beyond Award on behalf of the health system as a whole. The Above and Beyond Award recognizes employers who exceed legal requirements with regard to employees who serve.
Both were awarded through the Department of Defense’s Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve program, or ESGR, which promotes cooperation and understanding between reservists and their civilian employers.
“Honestly, to me, it’s the least we can do,” Connell said. “All of our reservists make so many sacrifices, including giving up their own time to train, to defend our country and protect our freedom. I’m privileged to work alongside them, and our department is proud to help them.”
He added that the award was particularly meaningful since he was nominated for it by a member of his team, Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist Larry Bates, who is a service member.
“We’re always throwing stuff at him that we have to participate in with the guard or reserve,” Bates said. “Chris always helps us unhesitatingly, never complains about it, always supports us 100%. It’s one less stress for us.”