Flagler County Sheriff’s Office Chief of Staff Mark Strobridge received the 2025 Colonel Gary E. DeKay Veteran of the Year Award at a Veterans Day ceremony on Tuesday. The award was presented at the Flagler County Government Services Building following the 3rd Annual Veterans Parade in Bunnell. Marine Corps veteran Jeff Kingdon, who received the 2024 Veteran of the Year honor, presented the award to Strobridge during the ceremony led by Veterans Services Officer David Lydon.

Strobridge’s Military and Law Enforcement Service

Strobridge served six years in the United States Marine Corps, reaching the rank of Corporal within his first two years. He spent an additional four years on inactive reserve before starting his law enforcement career in 1981. Over more than 40 years, he has held leadership positions across Central Florida and currently serves as Chief of Staff for the Flagler County Sheriff’s Office. “There are so many people I could name that are more deserving than I am of this award,” said Strobridge. “Every veteran wrote that check — ‘send me, I will go and stand between you and danger.’ I’ve been fortunate to work alongside incredible people throughout my life, including Sheriff Rick Staly, who’s mentored me for more than four decades. I’ve had great examples to follow and am truly grateful for all of them.”

About the Award

The Colonel Gary E. DeKay Veteran of the Year Award honors Colonel DeKay, a U.S. Army Reserve officer and community leader who served his country and Flagler County for more than 46 years. The award recognizes veterans who show patriotism, leadership, and selfless service. It is given each year on Veterans Day to one Flagler County veteran. “Chief of Staff Strobridge has dedicated his entire life to service,” said Sheriff Rick Staly. “From his years in the Marine Corps and then in the Navy, to his decades in law enforcement, he represents the very best in leadership. This recognition is well deserved, and I’m proud to have him on our team. Congratulations!” Previous recipients of the DeKay Award include Captain Sisco Deen in 2017 and Randall Stapleford in 2023. The award highlights veterans who continue serving their community after their military service ends.