Guardsman honors local Cape business

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. -- Kevin Cantwell, president of Big River Telephone Company in Cape Girardeau, was recently presented with a Patriot Award in recognition of his extraordinary support of employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserves.

The Patriot Award was created by the Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve to recognize individuals who provide outstanding patriotic support and cooperation to their employees who have answered their nation's call to duty.

Cantwell was nominated by Spc. James T. Eakin, an employee for Big River Telephone Company for three years and who is currently serving with 1140th Forward Support Company in Cape Girardeau.

"Kevin is always outwardly supportive of my service," said Eakin "They let me do what I have to do and always takes the time to personally thank me whenever I return to work from duty. We've been very busy lately with floods and training, and I thought this would be a way to say thank you in return."

The nomination was a surprise, but he was honored, said Cantwell.

"I appreciate the work J.T. does for us," said Cantwell. "I think it's just a part of our day to day procedures as employers to support him. You got to go sandbag along the Mississippi? Go. We'll be here when you get back."

For Eakin, having the strong support he gets at work makes his Guard service even more fulfilling.

"They make me feel proud and honored to serve in the military," said Eakin.

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