Gov. Mikie Sherrill (D) has nominated Bayonne resident Michael Embrich as New Jersey’s first veteran advocate, who will lead the state Office of the Veteran Advocate if approved by the state Senate.
By John Heinis/Hudson County View
“As a fellow Navy veteran, I understand that our obligation to those who served does not end when they take off the uniform. New Jersey’s veterans deserve a strong, independent voice focused entirely on their well-being and on ensuring government delivers the care, services, and support they have earned,” Sherrill said in a statement.
“Michael has spent his career fighting for veterans and military families at every level of government. His experience, integrity, and deep commitment to service make him the right person to become New Jersey’s first Veteran Advocate.”
His nomination comes as New Jersey’s new standalone Department of Veterans Affairs (DVA) begins its first year of operations after being created by the state legislature in 2025.
Although housed within the New Jersey Department of Veterans Affairs, the office will operate independently.
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 was also a part of Sherrill’s transition task force in December after she was elected governor, which was not a surprise since he was a big supporter of her candidacy, calling her support of veterans unwavering in an HCV editorial published back in December 2024.
“Veterans deserve services that are responsive, transparent, and worthy of the sacrifices they made for our country. Michael brings a veteran’s perspective, decades of public-service experience, and a clear record of advocating for veterans and their families,” added New Jersey Department of Veterans Affairs Commissioner Vincent Solomeno.
“The department welcomes this new partnership, and we look forward to working with Michael while fully respecting the independence that is fundamental to his role.”
The DVA has made improvements in care and quality of life at New Jersey’s Veterans Memorial Homes, including through investments in frontline staff, medical equipment, and new technology.
All three homes now hold five-star overall ratings from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services – a testament to the dedicated staff who care for veterans, their spouses, and Gold Star Families each day.
“I am deeply honored to be nominated by Governor Sherrill to serve as New Jersey’s first Veteran Advocate. Governor Sherrill’s commitment to veterans is personal, and she has made supporting those who served a priority throughout her career,” Embrich expressed.
“I look forward to serving as an independent and trusted voice for veterans and their families, working alongside Commissioner Solomeno and the Department of Veterans Affairs to strengthen services, promote accountability, and improve the lives of veterans across the Garden State.”
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.
He served aboard the USS Theodore Roosevelt and received the Meritorious Unit Commendation, Navy Unit Commendation, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, among other military awards and decorations, and is also a published author.
