2026 Freedom Award Presented to U.S. Army Captain Emily Klinkenborg

New City, NY – County Executive Ed Day and Director Susan Branam of the Rockland County Veterans Service Agency recognized a female veteran with a Freedom Award Monday, an annual County honor made to female veterans for outstanding service to our nation.

“Acknowledging those who have worked and sacrificed to protect the freedoms we enjoy is crucial,” said County Executive Ed Day. “Particularly women whose contributions to building and protecting our country have long been overlooked.”

The 2026 Freedom Award was presented to U.S. Army Captain (Ret.) Emily Klinkenborg.

Klinkenborg, a U.S. Army Signal Corps Officer, served nearly seven years on active duty with distinction, professionalism, and strong leadership across multiple assignments. Her duty stations included spanned Korea, Kuwait, and Hawaii. Throughout her service, she earned several commendations, including Army Civilian Service Commendation Medals, the Air Force Civilian Achievement Award, the Army Commendation Medal (1 Oak Leaf Cluster), the Army Achievement Medal (1 Oak Leaf Cluster), the National Defense Service Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, the Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, the Army Service Ribbon, the Overseas Service Ribbon, and the Gold German Armed Forces Badge for Military Proficiency.

Following her military career, Emily continued her commitment to serving others by joining the board of Rockland Homes for Heroes, where she plays a key role in supporting initiatives that benefit local veterans. She also serves her community every day as a County employee, further demonstrating her dedication to public service.

“I am honored to present this award to Emily, whose commitment to service—both in uniform and here at home—sets a powerful example,” said Veterans Service Agency Director Susan Branam. “Her leadership, volunteerism, and unwavering advocacy for veterans make her incredibly deserving of this recognition.”

“We thank Emily for her bravery, her service to our nation, and her ongoing commitment to our residents,” concluded County Executive Day. “We are proud to add her name to the distinguished list of women who have received the Rockland County Freedom Award.”

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