Huntington, W.Va. — Spilman Thomas & Battle (Spilman) announced that Robert M. Sellards, Member in Charge of the law firm’s Huntington office, recently was recognized as a “Patriotic Employer” by the Office of the Secretary of Defense.

This award highlights Sellards’ unwavering support of employee participation in the United States National Guard and Reserve. It reflects his efforts to support service members through a wide range of measures including flexible schedules, time off prior to and after deployment, caring for families, and granting necessary leaves of absence.

“I am humbled by this recognition from the Department of Defense. For me, supporting our service members has always been an unquestionable duty. It's simply the right thing to do and the right way to lead our office,” Sellards said.

Spilman has a long-standing tradition of supporting service members and veterans, a commitment that dates back to its founding during the Civil War. Sellards' dedication to this cause is a continuation of the firm’s historical values.

Michael J. Basile, Spilman’s Managing Member, added, “Supporting service members and veterans is an integral part of our firm’s identity. We are proud of Rob’s recognition and remain committed to fostering an environment that honors and assists those who serve our country.”

Sellards was nominated for the award by two service members in Spilman’s Huntington office – Bradley D. Dunkle, who serves as Captain in the West Virginia Air National Guard, and Joel P. Jones, Jr., who serves as Lieutenant Junior Grade in the United States Coast Guard Reserve. For more information about employer awards, please visit https://www.esgr.mil/.

About Spilman Thomas & Battle, PLLC
Spilman Thomas & Battle is a full-service, super-regional law firm serving local, regional, national, and international businesses. Founded in 1864, Spilman has offices in Charleston, Huntington, Morgantown, and Wheeling, West Virginia; Roanoke, Virginia; Winston-Salem, North Carolina; Harrisburg and Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and St. Augustine, Florida.