FOLSOM — Folsom Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 6604 honored Folsom Police Sgt. Mike Grueneberg on Wednesday night with the VFW National Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award, one of the highest distinctions the organization presents to a law enforcement professional.
The ceremony at the Folsom Veterans Hall marked the culmination of a highly competitive, multi-level VFW selection process. Grueneberg was first chosen at the Post 6604 level, then advanced through District 17 and the statewide competition before being most recently selected for the national honor — an award given to only one officer in the country each year.
Post 6604 leaders presented the national certificate, signed by VFW Commander-in-Chief Alfred Lipphardt and Adjutant General Dan West, before a room of veterans, officers and community members.
Grueneberg accepted the recognition with humility, offering brief remarks to thank those who supported his nomination. “I’m very humbled and blessed to receive this award,” he said. “And if it wasn’t for you guys, I wouldn’t have gotten that award. So thank you.”
The national award adds to a career defined by service and leadership. Grueneberg joined the Folsom Police Department in 2007 and has served in patrol, as a K-9 handler, as a field training officer and now as a supervisor in the Neighborhood Services Division. In his current role, he oversees the Problem-Oriented Policing Team, community resource officers, animal control, the K-9 unit and the traffic team.
Interim Police Chief Randy Ulibarri praised Grueneberg’s leadership and character to Folsom Times Wednesday, noting that he “consistently stands out as a trusted leader within our organization” and exemplifies the department’s values of courage, integrity, safety and justice. Ulibarri said Grueneberg’s selection for the national award “brings well-deserved honor to our entire organization.”
His accomplishments extend beyond local policing. Before entering law enforcement, Grueneberg served in the U.S. Marine Corps, earning two Bronze Stars for his service. Over the years, he has been repeatedly recognized by the Veterans of Foreign Wars at the post and district levels, establishing a long-standing connection between his military service and his commitment to public safety.
Many members of the Folsom Police Department attended Wednesday’s presentation to support their colleague, including several who arrived while off duty. The event also drew strong representation from city leadership. Folsom Mayor Sarah Aquino and Councilwoman Anna Rohrbough were present for the ceremony, along with City Manager Bryan Whitemyer and Folsom Library Director Thomas Gruneisen. Local residents filled the hall as well, reflecting the broad community appreciation for the department and for Grueneberg’s service.
Grueneberg’s career with the Folsom Police Department includes six commendations, two department bronze stars and numerous unit citations dating back to 2007. Colleagues regard him as a steady mentor, a respected supervisor and a consistent contributor to the department’s community-focused initiatives.
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