Commander Irwin Rosenberg was honored for his service to the San Fernando Police Department (SFPD) and the City of San Fernando at the City Council meeting on Monday, Aug. 19.
“It’s humbling to have been a part of this community for 40 years,” said Rosenberg trying to hold back his emotions. “I like to think this badge means something. It stands for integrity and honor, and a code of ethics. I hope that I’ve lived up to that.”
In a rare career move, after working for LAIDLAW Transit, at age 50, Rosenberg joined the SFPD, where he spent 20 years serving and rising in the ranks.
“It was somewhat of an emotional moment, pinning the badge of commander on Irwin Rosenberg’s uniform,” said Chief Fabian Valdez. “Because I think it’s symbolic of the dedication that Irwin has demonstrated, and the service he has provided, to the San Fernando community.”
Rosenberg was presented with certificates, plaques and honors from Sen. Alex Padilla, Congressman Tony Cárdenas, State Sen. Caroline Menjivar, State Assemblywoman Luz Rivas, the San Fernando Kiwanis Club, SFPD and the City of San Fernando.
“The San Fernando City Council wishes to honor you for 20 years of dedicated service to the City of San Fernando and its residents,” San Fernando Mayor Celeste Rodriguez read from a statement. “We are proud to have had the honor of your presence on our team. The vast knowledge in your field and the exceptional contributions that you have made throughout your tenure have been truly appreciated.”
The City Council chambers were filled with friends and family, including notable officials such as former State Assemblyman Richard Katz and former State Sen. Robert Hertzberg.
Rosenberg thanked those he worked with, those who supported him throughout the years and those who stood by him when he suffered a heart attack.
“Last year, when I had my heart attack at the end of my work day and I ended up in the hospital … it was my wife, my daughter and some of my closest friends that were right there with me – that made sure I’m still here today to be able to enjoy this moment,” said Rosenberg.
“You know if people are there for you when something happens to you, and let me tell you, this city took care of me,” he added.
Rosenberg mentioned that his mentor once told him to prioritize “the profession, the community, the department and then yourself in that order.”
“If we are taking care of our profession and are doing it right, we are taking care of our community – and the department should be alright, and we should be okay,” said Rosenberg. “If we put ourselves first … we hurt everybody.”
He thanked the community for always supporting the SFPD, and helping “get this city back on the right track” when there were difficult times in the department.
Beyond his dedication to law enforcement, Rosenberg is known for volunteering, building relationships and working with organizations. Notably, he dressed up as Santa Claus every year, and spent almost a decade helping organize the annual Law Enforcement Torch to raise money and awareness for the Special Olympics.
“God bless the City of San Fernando. Thank you for the privilege and honor to be a part of this great community,” Rosenberg said.