Congressman-elect Peter Welch is thanking Vermont businesses for supporting their workers who served in the National Guard and Reserve.
Welch made his first public appearance today since the election at a luncheon in South Burlington hosted by the Employers Support for Guard and Reserve. Seventy-five businesses were honored.
More than 400 Vermont businesses have signed pledges to support their employees in the Guard and Reserve.
Welch was joined at the event Governor Jim Douglas and Senator-elect Bernie Sanders. All the officials say Vermont is unique for the level of support employers show to citizens soldiers.