LIEUTENANT BEN ECKOLA TELLS RRN NEWS ABOUT THE AWARD WINNERS
The Michigan State Police (MSP) Eighth District is proud to announce the winners of the district’s 2025 Employee of the Year Awards. These awards honor members who show strong character, dedicated service, and a positive impact on the communities they serve.
This year’s recipients are Tpr. Ryan Rossler from the Iron Mountain Post, MCO Bruce Brown from the Sault Ste. Marie Post, and Civilian Employee Tammy Williamson from the St. Ignace Post. Each were presented with their awards this week at MSP Eighth District Headquarters in Marquette.
Eighth District Trooper of the Year, Tpr. Ryan Rossler
Tpr. Rossler is being recognized for work that goes above what is expected. Whether he is on general patrol, completing criminal investigations, or responding to emergency calls, Tpr. Rossler does exceptional work. In his canine handler capacity, Tpr. Rossler is a leader and mentor for the other MSP and local law enforcement canine teams in the Upper Peninsula. Tpr. Rossler has demonstrated success finding lost people and narcotics detection for criminal investigations. He often helps other canine teams and is known for responding to important calls with skill and care.
Tpr. Rossler shows calm and steady leadership. He gladly volunteers to help other post staff members and other local police officers. He is well respected by those he works with. Outside of work, he supports his community by coaching middle school girls basketball, helping at school events, and taking part in youth activities. Many people in the community speak highly of him and appreciate how kindly he treats others.
Eighth District Motor Carrier Officer of the Year, MCO Bruce Brown
MCO Brown is being honored for his excellent performance and strong leadership. He works hard to keep Michigan roads safe and is known for his careful attention to detail. MCO Brown is diligent and effective in identifying hazardous drivers and unsafe vehicles, which helps to keep roadways safe and reduce commercial vehicle crashes.
His proactive work in construction zones has been notably important, and workers have thanked him for helping keep them safe. He often works with MDOT and county road commissions to help to identify high-risk areas and prioritize enforcement. This collaboration has played an important role in protecting Michigan’s transportation infrastructure.
MCO Brown builds good relationships with others and teaches trucking companies how to follow safety rules. He also helps train fellow officers, offering guidance and support whenever they need it. MCO Brown is very active in the community. He leads the district’s coat drive each year, coaches youth sports, joins Special Olympics events, and helps with local fundraisers. His dedication and positive attitude make him a role model for others.
Eighth District Civilian Employee of the Year, Tammy Williamson
Tammy Williamson from the St. Ignace Post is being recognized for her professionalism, kindness, and support of her team. As the St. Ignace Post secretary, she is known for being very helpful. She handles important office duties, keeps budgets organized, and helps staff with their administrative responsibilities. She takes on extra tasks without hesitation and helps to manage special events. Her coworkers trust her and often go to her for advice. She treats everyone with respect and truly cares about the people she works with.
Tammy is also very active in her community. As an example, this past year, she and her daughter helped organize suicide awareness and prevention efforts by raising funds and building two custom benches. One was donated to Pellston Schools and the other to Veteran’s Memorial Park in Pellston. These benches serve as visible reminders of hope and support, and their efforts mark meaningful steps to promote suicide prevention and awareness in the community.
Each of these award recipients will now be considered for the statewide MSP Employee of the Year Award for their respective position, which will be announced at a later date.
The MSP Eighth District is appreciative of the hard work, dedication, and community support shown by Tpr. Rossler, MCO Brown, and Tammy Williamson. Their service reflects the MSP mission to provide the highest quality law enforcement and public safety services throughout Michigan. We thank them for their outstanding commitment to the people and communities they serve.
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