While reservists with the 446th Airlift Wing's Security Forces Squadron, headquartered at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, McChord Field, might be prepared for conflict in their military career, they'd rather avoid it when it comes to their civilian jobs. Luckily for some, an understanding and a supportive boss can make for a seamless transition.

"King County is a superb employer that stands behind their military reserve employees. There has never been a hassle or anything when we have had to come out on orders, including no-notice orders," said Master Sgt. Michael LeFranis, who is part of the 446th SFS and instructs active-duty airmen with combat arms.

LeFrancis, 45, has spent 16 years in the Air Force Reserves. Prior to that he served four years on active-duty in the Air Force and spent two years with the Army National Guard.

"They are excellent about letting us know in advance when they need time for missions, etc.," said Capt. Ken Lollie, who has been with King County Jail for 24 years. "I don't see it as a negative impact here because they handle it so well."

Master Sgt. Carlos Duell, who also reports to Lollie, works with the 446th SFS as the RAVEN program manager.

"I feel I'm getting the best of both worlds in training and technology and practical application in day-to-day work at my jobs, which I love," Duell said. "Because I know I am making a difference in the world - not just my world. I see the people we help firsthand with transportation and other humanitarian missions."

"King County has been great in the support of me and the Air Force mission without a loss of benefits or seniority during the active-duty activation orders," continued Duell, who began his military career on active-duty with the Royal Air Force. "I fall right back into place. It helps that my jobs really go hand-in-hand because I am constantly providing transport security in both my civilian and military jobs."

In fact, Lollie's support has been so remarkable that LeFrancis and Duell are planning to nominate him for a Patriot Award. The Patriot Award is given to individual civilian supervisors based on a nomination by an employee serving in the National Guard or Reserves to whom they have shown direct, positive support. This includes flexible schedules, time off prior to and after a deployment, caring for families and granting leaves of absence if needed.

"This has been my only employer while being in the Reserves, so I do not have a comparison," explained LeFrancis. "But I am just really glad I'm not elsewhere given some of the stories I have heard with various employers of fellow reservists. I think Capt. Lollie is even more supportive and understanding of the demands military have because he is a prior marine himself."

While Lollie cannot say enough about the two reservists who report to him, it is more about their dedication to their respective jobs and less about his own military background.

"I am glad these officers are on my team and I think some of the other commanders might be jealous of my A-team," Lollie said. "I am confident when I give them an assignment and I appreciate the work they do here and on the base."