Michigan State Trooper Named The American Legion’s National Law Enforcement Officer of the Year

Joseph Rowley, a 17-year trooper with the Michigan State Police, received The American Legion’s National Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award Aug. 23 during the organization’s 99th National Convention in Reno, Nev.

Rowley serves as a departmental instructor in firearms and defensive tactics, as well as a field training officer. He has coordinated his district's participation in the Fallen Trooper Memorial, spearheaded the collection of donations for a fellow trooper's father after a house fire, and volunteers his spare time at a camp for children with cancer, a memorial baseball tournament and more.

One important highlight of his criminal investigations over the past year was his work on a credit-card fraud case that led to the discovery of a commercialized sex/human trafficking operation.

"I am so grateful for everyone here," Rowley commented, "...for the way you make me feel welcome as a law enforcement officer."

The American Legion’s National Law Enforcement Officer of the Year Award is presented annually to a 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.