Sheriff Konrath Presented with The Edward J. Ormsby Law and Order Award
Kris Bergh was recently asked to speak with the Judicial and Public Safety committee about something significant that happened at the Wisconsin American Legion Department Convention in July. Kris went on to announce the following,” Our Sheriff, Sheriff Joseph Konrath was presented with the Edward Ormsby Law and Order Award. This Award is presented annually to a well-rounded law enforcement officer who has exceeded the duty requirements expected of his or her position and has demonstrated a distinct pattern of community service coupled with professional achievement. His nomination went to the Wisconsin Department where he was selected over nominees from the other 11 Districts in the State. Congratulations Sheriff “Joe”. You are very deserving of this recognition.”
Edward J. Ormsby, a Milwaukee Police Officer and Korean Era Veteran was elected The American Legion, Department of Wisconsin Commander in 1970. During his term as Commander the Law & Order Award was initiated. He died in November 1973 at 43 years old. In 1974 at the 56th Annual Department Convention in Milwaukee, a resolution was passed to rename the award “The Edward J. Ormsby Law and Order Awards Program”
The nomination of Sheriff Konrath was prepared by Captain Michael Kowalski and Sergeant Kari Tomlin from the Marquette County Sheriff's Department. The nomination letter highlighted how he leads by example, has a positive attitude, remains calm, and possesses a can-do attitude. It also stated that Sheriff Konrath is a natural leader who has accomplished many impressive feats. He successfully investigated and solved the biggest "drug bust" in Marquette County and closed the most arson investigations. In addition, he was selected to attend the Federal Bureau of Investigations National Academy in Quantico, Virginia, which only one percent of law enforcement worldwide have been able to attend. Sheriff Konrath was also responsible for reintroducing DARE (Drug Abuse Resistance Education) to schools to educate young children on making positive choices. He also helped start the Marquette County Cops & Bobber’s event which allows law enforcement to go fishing with children and build positive relationships. In his nomination letter, Sheriff Konrath was praised for his exceptional qualities, including his commitment to fairness, safety, and helpfulness. Marquette County Administrator, Ron Barger, also expressed his support for Sheriff Konrath, stating that he not only meets the needs of his staff but also understands the needs of those in his care, including incarcerated individuals. Sheriff Konrath has played a significant role in implementing in-house programs designed to promote literacy, mental health, and parenting skills. The nomination was also approved by the Neshkoro American Legion Commander and sent to the American Legion 6th District Commander.
Sheriff Joe Konrath had this to say about his prestigious award, “It is a great honor to receive an award, but I am humbled to get one from The American Legion. They are the true heroes and any form of service pales in comparison to theirs. Times are hard and changes have made things more difficult. Despite that, I will always try my best to serve my community”.
