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Christ the King Principal Don Graff was presented with a Patriot Award this month.

MESA — Shortly before students returned to Christ the King Catholic School and the daily recitation of the pledge of allegiance Aug. 12, their principal was honored for his patriotism.

Teresa Fisher, the school’s athletic director and physical education teacher, alongside the Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve, presented Don Graff with the Patriot Award Aug. 10. Fisher nominated her boss for the award for his support of her career, both at the school and with the United States National Guard.

As a soldier, Fisher must report for out-of-state duty at times and has even served in Iraq. Graff has faithfully supported Fisher’s rank even though religious organizations are subject to laws under the Uniformed Services Employment and Reemployment Rights Act according to the school.

The nation’s Reserve components make up nearly half of the country’s total available military manpower. The current National Defense Strategy calls more Reserve forces to spend more time away from the workplace for training and defense.