Regarding the civvy worlds attitude to such things, if you are of an ability to represent your country, most civvy companies would jump at the chance of a little free
PR, and may even stretch to sponsorship or financial assistance on top of providing additional leave. Its not like you're talking about every employee in your company, and it shows you take pride in, and care of, your people - in and out of work!
How the average employee is treated is by the by, its all to do with perception! Equally though, the average civvy company still expects you to do your job....