Deputy Bradford Rybak Honored as 2025 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year
American Legion Post 88 Commander David Abbruzzese opened the ceremony with a moving tribute to Deputy Rybak’s character, courage, and commitment.
“This deputy stands as a proud representative of the thin blue line — the brave men and women who serve as guardians of our communities, those who willingly run toward danger when others seek safety,” Abbruzzese said.
“Deputy, your courage does not go unnoticed. Your dedication does not go unappreciated… You embody the values of service, honor, and selflessness that define the very best of law enforcement.”
He concluded by reading the nomination criteria, emphasizing the categories of Valor and Public Service, which serve as the gold standard for the award.
Sheriff Schneider: ‘An Asset to Ashland County’
Ashland County Sheriff Kurt J. Schneider offered powerful words of praise, highlighting both Rybak’s skillset and his extraordinary commitment to protecting the community.
“Deputy Rybak is an asset to the Ashland County Sheriff’s Office and the citizens of Ashland County,” Sheriff Schneider said. “He has been an employee of the Sheriff’s Office for nearly a year now and is routinely meeting and exceeding expectations.”
Sheriff Schneider emphasized that Rybak arrived with “an abundance of training and knowledge in every aspect of public safety,” which the office has utilized to his full potential.
According to the Sheriff:
Deputy Rybak’s expertise enables him to respond effectively to law enforcement, fire service, and EMS emergencies.
He has been instrumental in providing lifesaving measures on numerous occasions.
Because deputies patrol the county 24/7, they are often first to arrive on critical scenes — and Deputy Rybak consistently takes the lead.
“Most recently, Deputy Rybak has arrived at several EMS calls where he initiated patient care, and then followed through by parking his cruiser and accompanying the patient to the hospital, ensuring the highest level of medical care — ultimately saving lives,” Schneider said.
The Sheriff also praised Rybak’s initiative in improving public safety countywide:
He identified areas where deputies could provide more effective emergency medical care.
He collaborated with the Ashland County EMS Director to secure necessary equipment.
He has worked with stakeholders across the county to gain support for enhanced lifesaving capabilities.
“I should note that Deputy Rybak is a United States Navy Veteran,” Sheriff Schneider added, “and has achieved all of his certifications and training at his own expense. His unwavering commitment to public service should be an example to all who choose to serve and is worthy of nomination for Law Enforcement Officer of the Year.”
Defined by Valor and Public Service
The award nomination outlined two key categories that Deputy Rybak exemplifies:
VALOR: Exceptional bravery at imminent risk of serious bodily injury, demonstrating courage beyond normal job expectations.
PUBLIC SERVICE: Creating or participating in programs that significantly benefit the community and exceed standard responsibilities.
While the nomination details remain private, these standards clearly reflect the consistent excellence that Rybak brings to Ashland County.
A Dual Role That Saves Lives
Rybak’s unique combination of law enforcement expertise and paramedic training has made him a critical first responder in countless emergencies. His willingness to go above and beyond — even riding in ambulances to continue care — sets him apart in a profession built on service.
A Community Says Thank You
The ceremony at Post 88 served as a heartfelt acknowledgement of Deputy Rybak’s impact — not only as a skilled deputy and paramedic, but as a leader, innovator, and servant to the people of Ashland County.
Deputy Bradford Rybak, the 2025 Law Enforcement Officer of the Year, continues to set the standard for excellence, courage, and compassion in public safety.
