Poughkeepsie . . . County Executive William Steinhaus has announced that Dutchess County Government will be adorning the county owned property and the County Office Facilities Campus on Market Street in the City of Poughkeepsie with yellow ribbons to welcome home our Dutchess County area soldiers from Iraq.
 
County Executive Steinhaus met with Deputy Sheriff Adam Nowik Jr. last week and spoke with him again today (Monday) after the Deputy's request to put yellow ribbons on City street lamp poles was turned down by the City Council and Mayor Cozean.
 
"I was surprised and disappointed that Mayor Cozean and some Council members were not supportive of the recognition of our brave soldiers and their dedicated service to our nation," said County Executive Steinhaus.
 
Commissioner of Public Works, Michael Murphy, will determine the appropriate display of the yellow ribbons on the County buildings on Market Street.  Ribbons will be affixed to the buildings and placed on county owned property including the Department of Social Services building on the County’s Market Street property which is immediately across the street from the Armory. 
 
Mr. Steinhaus concluded, "I was at the Armory for the send off of the 727th Military Police Detachment, in June.  It was a touching ceremony and very emotional looking into the tearful eyes of family members as they gave goodbye hugs and kisses to the soldiers.  I believe the ribbons will not only let our troops know how much we appreciate their courage and sacrifice when they return, but it will also serve as a reminder to all county residents to keep them and their families in our prayers.  I want to acknowledge the effort of Deputy Nowik for championing the recognition of our brave soldiers.”