New City – County Executive Ed Day and Veterans Service Agency Director Susan Branam honored a distinguished female veteran on Monday with the annual Rockland County Freedom Award, recognizing outstanding service by women in the armed forces.

“Acknowledging those who have worked and sacrificed to protect the freedoms we enjoy is crucial,” said County Executive Ed Day. “This is especially true for women, whose contributions to building and defending our nation have too often been overlooked.”

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

A Signal Corps Officer, Klinkenborg served nearly seven years on active duty with distinction, demonstrating professionalism and strong leadership across multiple assignments. Her service included deployments and postings in Korea, Kuwait, and Hawaii.

Throughout her military career, she earned numerous honors, including the Army Civilian Service Commendation Medal, Air Force Civilian Achievement Award, Army Commendation Medal (with one Oak Leaf Cluster), Army Achievement Medal (with one Oak Leaf Cluster), National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Army Service Ribbon, Overseas Service Ribbon, and the Gold German Armed Forces Badge for Military Proficiency.

Following her military service, Klinkenborg has continued her dedication to others as a board member of Rockland Homes for Heroes, supporting initiatives that benefit local veterans. She also serves her community as a County employee, further demonstrating her ongoing commitment 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 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 continued dedication to our residents,” County Executive Day added. “We are proud to add her name to the distinguished list of women who have received the Rockland County Freedom Award.”