U.S. Department Of Defense Office Honors Bendix Employee With Patriot Award

Shown from left are Keith McComsey, Kinjal Mistry, and Marc Sotak. (Photo courtesy of Bendix)

To hear Kinjal Mistry and Keith McComsey tell it, they’re both just doing their jobs: McComsey is director of air disc brake systems and products at Bendix Commercial Vehicle Systems LLC (Bendix) in Avon, OH, and Mistry is a product owner in McComsey’s department — as well as a chief petty officer in the United States Coast Guard Reserve. And through Mistry’s efforts, the U.S. Department of Defense’s Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR) office recently recognized McComsey with its Patriot Award.

“I wanted to take a step to express my sincere gratitude to Keith and Bendix for unwavering support of my military duties,” Mistry said. “A true leader is not just one who guides in the workplace but also one who supports the call of duty, understanding that service to country is just as important as service to company. Knowing that I have the backing of such a supportive employer has made balancing my responsibilities much easier. Bendix’s commitment to the well-being of employees who serve in the military is truly commendable, and it makes a significant difference in the lives of those who serve.”

“Supporting Kinjal’s service in the reserves was an easy choice because I have the utmost respect for those who serve and sacrifice like she does,” McComsey added. “I wanted to clear the way so she could do that without feeling uncomfortable, and without any thought that this might be viewed as a burden in the workplace. It’s an honor to accept this recognition, and while our co-workers and I appreciate all that Kinjal does here at Bendix, the thanks for her service to our country comes from all of us and our families as well.”

Bendix IT Manager Marc Sotak leads the Bendix Patriots, an employee resource group that aims to support service members and veterans within the company, within an employee’s family, and in the larger community. Participation in the group is open to all employees.

McComsey, who himself is not a military veteran or reservist, is an enthusiastic Bendix Patriots member. The group’s activities have included organizing an annual Veterans Day recognition breakfast for employees; volunteering on National Wreaths Across America Day; and hosting guest speakers. Visit bendix.com.