Rockland County proudly announced Mark Woods as their 2024 Veteran of the Year in recognition of his extensive service both in the field of law enforcement and the military.
With a distinguished 20-year career in law enforcement, Woods boasts expertise from his time with the NYPD and Federal Law Enforcement. Furthermore, he has dedicated over two decades serving in various capacities such as the U.S. Army, U.S. Army Reserve, and the New York Army National Guard.
In his present role, Woods is the Director of Rockland County’s Joseph P. Dwyer Veteran Peer Support Program. The program, which has branches across New York State, is non-clinical and emphasizes peer-to-peer mentoring for veterans. Through diverse activities like weekly walks, monthly luncheons, book clubs, and more, the Dwyer Program fosters strong relationships between veterans and their families. The initiative underscores the importance of mental health and suicide prevention, especially for at-risk veterans.
Woods’s military journey took him to Iraq, where he was stationed in Tal Afar, Nineveh Governorate during the Iraq War. As a U.S. Army Major, he played a pivotal role as the primary advisor to the Mayor of Tal Afar during Operation Iraqi Freedom. Displaying exemplary leadership, Woods commanded a Civil Affairs Team, where he not only developed governance strategies but also supervised the execution of infrastructure projects worth over $20 million. This included the construction of schools, medical facilities, water wells, pipelines, utility stations, and even a public library, among others.
The county will be commemorating Mark Woods’s achievements and contributions in a ceremony slated for November 5th. The event will take place at the Rockland County Courthouse steps at noon, and is set to proceed come rain or shine.