The County Executive’s Corner: Honoring a True Local Hero

Each year, the Freedom Award gives us an important moment to pause as a community—an opportunity to reflect on the meaning of service, sacrifice, and the freedoms we so often take for granted. As Rockland County Executive, I consider it a privilege to recognize individuals whose commitment to duty has strengthened our nation and enriched the very fabric of our county. 

This year, I am deeply honored to shine a spotlight on an extraordinary veteran whose courage and leadership embody the values we hold most dear: Emily Klinkenborg. 

Emily’s nearly seven years of service in the United States Army speak volumes about her dedication to our country. As a Signal Corps Officer, her duty stations included Korea, Kuwait, and Hawaii. These deployments demanded resilience, adaptability, and technical expertise, all of which she demonstrated time and again. Her military career earned her an impressive list of awards and commendations, each one representing moments of excellence, leadership, and unwavering commitment to the mission. 

But what makes Emily especially deserving of the 2026 Freedom Award is that her dedication to serving others did not end when her active-duty service concluded. Here at home in Rockland County, she continues to make a profound impact—both as a County employee and as a volunteer leader on the Rockland Homes for Heroes Board. Her work supports initiatives that provide critical assistance to veterans, particularly those who need a helping hand as they transition back into civilian life. Emily consistently steps forward, offering her time, expertise, and compassion to ensure that those who once served our nation are not left behind. 

In every sense, Emily leads by example. Whether she is supporting her fellow veterans, serving the residents of Rockland County, or living out the values instilled in her throughout her military career, she does so with humility and an unwavering sense of purpose. Her continued service reminds us that leadership is not defined solely by rank or uniform—it is defined by a lifelong commitment to making a difference.

On behalf of our community, our county, and our country, I extend my heartfelt thanks to Emily for her extraordinary service and her ongoing dedication to others. It is my honor to present her with the 2026 Freedom Award, a recognition she has earned through years of service, sacrifice, and steadfast commitment.