Despite a shaky economy, businesses are contributing to homeland security and the war against terrorism by backing their workers who are guardsmen or reservists. Although it is still too early to determine how an extensive call-up may affect human resources, many firms are researching their legal requirements in terms of pay, benefits and re-employment. Several are then going beyond the mandatory to the extraordinary to ensure that their employees can serve their country without worrying about their families or civilian jobs. After reviewing mission requirements, the services recommended a call-up of 35,000 guardsmen and reservists. President George W. Bush authorized a call-up of 50,000. The service members will conduct port operations missions; provide medical, engineering and general civil support; and participate in homeland defense operations.
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