ST. LOUIS, Aug. 29, 2011 -- Arch Coal, Inc. (NYSE: ACI) today announced it has been named a 2011 Pro Patria Award Recipient for Missouri, the highest award given to an employer by the Missouri Committee for Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve (ESGR), an agency of the U.S. Department of Defense. The award presentation was made at the state ESGR's awards dinner on Aug. 26.

This is the second Pro Patria Award presented to Arch Coal in 2011. Earlier this year, Arch's Mingo Logan Coal Co. and its Mountain Laurel mining complex earned the West Virginia Pro Patria Award.

"We are proud to support our Guard and Reserve employees and their families for their commitment to our nation, our state and our communities," said Arch Coal Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Steven F. Leer. "We are doubly honored to receive the ESGR's highest state award in Missouri and West Virginia."

Each year, the Missouri ESGR Committee selects one large employer in the state as a Pro Patria recipient. That company is recognized for providing the most exceptional support of national defense through leadership practices and personnel policies that support employees who serve in the National Guard and Reserve.

"The respect and honor Arch Coal gives our service members makes a positive difference in our communities," said Stan Brasch, Missouri ESGR awards director. "I strongly encourage all employers to match Arch's steadfast support of our men and women in uniform."

St. Louis-based Arch Coal is one of the world's largest coal producers, with 179 million tons of coal sold pro forma in 2010. Arch's national network of mines supplies cleaner-burning, low-sulfur coal to U.S. and international power producers and steel manufacturers on four continents. Arch's 7,400-person workforce hails from 10 states.

ESGR is a Department of Defense agency established in 1972. Its mission is to gain and maintain employer support for Guard and Reserve service by recognizing outstanding support, increasing awareness of the law and resolving conflicts through informal mediation. ESGR volunteers provide free education, consultation and, if necessary, mediation for employers of Guard and Reserve employees.