Sen. Cooney Honors Local EMT with NYS Senate Commendation

(Brighton, NY) This week, Senator Jeremy Cooney (SD56-Rochester) honored retired EMT Michael E. Pollock with a Commendation from the New York State Senate. Pollock has been part of the Brighton EMS community since 1987. While he retired due to an injury, Pollock continues to be an advocate on behalf of EMS workers which includes serving on the Board of Directors for the Society for Total Emergency Programs Council of the Genesee Region, helping to secure funding for the expansion of the Brighton Volunteer Ambulance Base, and working to ensure the EMTs are considered essential workers during the pandemic and beyond.

The Senate Commendation Award recognizes exceptional people who have made a lasting contribution to their community through volunteerism, leadership, and/or charitable work.

Senator Jeremy Cooney 

“I am honored to recognize Michael Pollock for his dedication as a local health hero and for being an advocate for those who are committed to this life saving work. EMS workers are essential healthcare workers who helped us survive the pandemic and the Senate’s Commendation Award is a testament to that work as well as Michael’s lasting impact in the Brighton community.”



Michael Pollock, Brighton Volunteer Ambulance

“I am humbled. I don’t do the things I do for recognition. Instead, I help others; whether it is the work I do at Brighton Volunteer Ambulance, or my state, or now national EMS advocacy work,  I do it so we accomplish great things to help others. This award also recognizes EMS. All too often, especially at budget time, we are forgotten. I hope this is the dawn of a new beginning. I appreciate being recognized by Senator Cooney for the work I have done.”