Employee Spotlight: Veteran Michael Geary

Few Montgomery County employees have a work-related story to tell like that of Michael Geary. His career with the county began in October 2019 as the deputy of (then) Emergency Services. A few months into his tenure, he took on the role of Interim Coordinator after his predecessor’s retirement in January 2020. Three months later, Geary and the rest of the world were challenged, as Covid-19 spread across the globe. He stepped up to the challenge, and a month later, was named Emergency Services Coordinator. But the story doesn’t end there. Fast-forward to November 2020, as an Army Reservist, he learned he would be transferred to a new unit—one that was going into active duty in a matter of months!

After learning the news, Geary informed County Administrator Craig Meadows (recently retired) of the development, knowing “orders supersede employment.” Meadows didn’t think twice. “He was very supportive,” Geary said. “He said, ‘No matter what, we’ll figure it out.’” A short time later, a plan was in place, and he was assured his role with the county would continue upon his return a year later. Additionally, the Board of Supervisors would unanimously approve a revision to the personnel procedures and policies Military Leave section, which would include providing paid compensation for employees called to active duty.

Reflecting on his time deployed, Geary is very thankful for the county’s support and his colleagues who kept things moving forward while he served our country. Just as he had been assured before leaving the country on deployment, his job was waiting for him when he returned to Montgomery County.?In fact,?upon his return to the county in April 2022, he was ready to get back to work—with a revamped department name (Fire/EMS), an updated title (Director), and a newly hired crew of rescue personnel starting their duties the next day.

About Operation Green Light

Operation Green Light is a national collaborative initiative of the National Association of Counties (NACo) to support military veterans by raising awareness about the unique challenges faced by many veterans and the resources that are available at the county, state, and federal level to assist veterans and their families.