Corning, N.Y., July 1—State Senator Tom O’Mara (R,C-Big Flats) and Assemblyman Phil Palmesano (R,C-Corning) recently recognized the retirement of longtime Corning Police Department Dispatcher Michael Watson upon the occasion of his retirement from the department following 30 years of service.

Palmesano attended a retirement party for Watson on Thursday, June 26, where he presented a Legislative Resolution (J1218/K00771) he sponsored together with O’Mara, paying tribute to Watson’s career with the Corning Police Department over the past three decades. Watson’s last day with the department was on June 26.

[In the attached photo, Assemblyman Phil Palmesano presented the Legislative Resolution he sponsored with Senator O’Mara to Corning Police Department Dispatcher Michael Watson at a retirement party in Watson’s honor on Thursday, June 26. From left to right: Back Row: Kenzie M. Spaulding, Police Chief, Mark L. Ryckman, City Manager. Front Row: Michael Watson, Assemblyman Phil Palmesano]

The resolution was adopted earlier this year by the full New York State Senate and Assembly. It reads, in part, “For the past 30 years, Michael Watson rendered faithful, conscientious, and valuable service to the Corning Police Department…In his capacity as dispatcher, Michael Watson served with loyalty, honor and distinction, and brought a patient and calming presence to the Corning Police Department. In his official acts, Michael Watson was governed by a keen sense of duty and always showed a unique grasp of human problems…During his tenure, he earned the admiration, esteem and affection of his colleagues.”

A motocross accident at the age of 18 left Watson permanently disabled and altered his career path. He joined the Corning PD as a dispatcher in 1994.

In a joint statement, O’Mara and Palmesano said, “Michael Watson overcame tragedy at an early age and responded with determination, hard work, and a relentlessly positive outlook that led him to a remarkably successful career playing a key role, for three decades, within the Corning Police Department. He has been an inspiration to his colleagues throughout these years, and to all those who have crossed his path in life in so many ways. We are grateful to have this opportunity to express our own admiration, respect, and thanks for all that he has done to help make the Corning community stronger and safer. Thank you Mike and we wish you the very best for a long, well-deserved, and well-earned retirement!”

Corning City Manager Mark Ryckman said, “Mike has been an outstanding employee. He is an inspiration to everyone around him."

Corning Police Chief Kenzie Spaulding said, "For over 30 years, Mike Watson has been the steady, calming voice at the front desk of the Corning Police Department. He has been the vital link between citizens in need and Corning's first responders. His unwavering dedication and calm presence have guided countless emergencies. He did all this while he faced personal challenges with strength and resilience. Through it all, Mike never faltered."