Bayonne Mayor Sharon Ashe-Nadrowski is congratulating resident Michael Embrich for being nominated by Gov. Mikie Sherrill (D) to be New Jersey’s first veteran advocate.
“Congratulations to Bayonne resident Michael Embrich on his nomination by Governor Sherrill to serve as New Jersey’s first veteran advocate. A Navy veteran and longtime advocate for veterans and military families, Michael has dedicated his career to public service at the local, state, and federal levels,” Ashe-Nadrowski said in a statement.
“If confirmed by the New Jersey Senate, he will become one of the select few Bayonne residents in history to serve in a governor’s administration. Bayonne has a rich military heritage and a longstanding tradition of public service. Michael’s nomination reflects those values, and of our community’s enduring commitment to serving others.”
On Wednesday, Sherrill announced that Embrich is her pick for veteran advocate, a new post that will be part of the New Jersey Department of Veteran Affairs, though still operate independently, as HCV first reported.
The veteran advocate will provide oversight of the state’s veterans homes and other veterans facilities, with the authority to inspect their operations, investigate allegations of abuse or neglect, recommend improvements, and monitor corrective actions.
The advocate will also investigate broader concerns involving veterans services, help connect veterans with the benefits they have earned, and represent their interests before state and federal agencies.
Embrich is a Navy veteran of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, as well as a former policy advisor to the U.S. Secretary of Veterans Affairs.
“We are proud to see a fellow Bayonne resident selected for this historic role and wish him every success as he works to advocate for New Jersey’s veterans and their families. Congratulations, Michael, on this well-deserved honor!” Ashe-Nadrowski concluded.