Orange County Exec Returns After Overseas Deployment

GOSHEN, NY — Orange County Executive Steven M. Neuhaus has returned to the U.S. from his deployment after being on active duty orders since November with the United States Navy. He served with the Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force, spending the majority of his deployment in various locations throughout Iraq in Support of Operation Inherent Resolve, the U.S. Military Campaign against ISIS.

“It has been an honor to serve my country in this capacity, but I am grateful to be back home with my family,” Neuhaus said.

He thanked those who sent care packages and well wishes during his deployment. He said the outpouring of support for him and his family was moving and greatly appreciated.

"Now that I’m home, I’m eager to continue working hard for the taxpayers of Orange County," Neuhaus said.

He said he was in contact with the county's managerial, legal and financial teams regularly while he was overseas.

"I want to commend them, along with the county workforce, for continuing their fine work during my deployment,” Neuhaus said.

“Throughout my deployment, I met many Orange County residents who are serving and doing dangerous work," he said. "Some are also home now, but many are still completing their tours. I ask the public to join me in keeping them and their families in thought and prayer.”

Neuhaus currently serves in the U.S. Navy Reserves as a Lieutenant Commander, assigned to a Naval Special Operations Team. He was deployed to the Middle East in early-January after completing pre-mobilization training at Fort Bliss Army Base in El Paso, Texas, in December. Neuhaus has served overseas in the past, including South Korea in 2017 and North Africa in 2011.

He said he plans to continue his focus on economic development and tourism, as well as working to strengthen the county’s infrastructure.

Find and “Like” Hudson Valley Patches' Facebook Pages.