Michael Essig earns Law Enforcement Leadership Award

HIGHLAND MILLS — Woodbury Town Councilman Michael Essig has been awarded The Law Enforcement Leadership award by the New York State Fraternal Order of Police Court Officers Memorial Lodge 35.
“It wasn’t hard to figure out who would be perfect for the award,"said Francis Graniero, president of the organization.
Graniero said Essig was selected because his 25-year career in the field has brought him to many positions in different agencies where he has proven his leadership skills and a longtime commitment to public service.
Essig’ has been a member of the Rockland County Sheriff’s Department where he has served as the deputy sheriff, the Anti-terrorist Analytical Department, and the Department of Homeland Security for the where he has served as chairman for the 19th Congressional District.
Essig has also played a leading role in many local organizations such as the Thanksgiving and Christmas Food pantry outreach program as well as his work as a Woodbury Town Board member.
Woodbury Village Mayor Michael Queenan said that Essig has proven to be a positive addition to Woodbury, especially as a liaison for the local law enforcement agencies.
“He is a great dimension to the town board," Queenan said. "His understanding of the inner workings of the police department is a great asset."
What struck Graniero the most was his own experiences seeing Essig in action in his current position of president of the Fraternal Order of Police for New York State. “I have seen him handle stressful situations beautifully," he said.
But above all other reasons, Graniero said, Essig earned the distinction because he has demonstrated that he lives by a belief that it is of the greatest honor and obligation to serve the community.
Essig has said that he is “deeply honored” to receive the award.
"There is nothing more flattering than respect from your peers," he said, "especially in law enforcement."
- Daniel Stimpfle