Spader Freight Services, Inc. presented with Patriotic Award

Guard Honors Spader Freight
By Becky Brooks Clyde Enterprise Editor

Spader Freight Services of Clyde and Tiffin was recognized Tuesday at noon with a Patriotic Employer certificate issued by the National Guard and Reserve.

President David Spader and Vice Presidents Steve and John Spader were given a surprise welcome by staff and representatives of the 416th Engineer Group at Green Hills Golf Course.

Staff Sgt. Mark Stephens, a Spader employee, who was deployed from December 2003 to March this year, nominated the local company. Stephens, who has returned to work for Spader, now works at the Company's Tiffin location.

Alan Rogers, commander for the 416th Engineer Group headquartered in Toledo, said the award is based on the recommendation of the soldier.

He added that last month a group of 20 employers were recognized in Columbus.

"I think the thing that is significant is these awards recognize the sacrifice employers make for National Guard and reserve soldiers," he said. Rogers added that an employer could lose a worker for 12 to 15 months.

"That's a big burden for them to bear," he commented.

Spader admits that losing Stephens was an adjustment for the Company.

"The hardest work was done by Mark and all the service men for protecting our freedom," Spader said when accepting the award.

Also attending the small ceremony was City of Tiffin administrator Wayne Stephens.

Both Staff Sgt. Stephens and Dave Spader pointed out that another Spader employee, Gwen Hahler, had worked to keep the company supportive of Stephens and his family during his tour of service.