Detective Mike Griesbaum Honored

On Saturday, February 19, a special award was presented to Detective Mike Griesbaum at the Annual S.W.A.T. Dinner, which was held in Sugar Grove.  Det. Griesbaum, a 20 year veteran of the St. Charles Police Department, has the distinction of serving as a member of the department tactical unit for 13 years, having served from 1997, until his retirement from the team in 2010.  In recognition of that service, members of the team presented him with a very special award in the form of a gold sword and scabbard, mounted to a wooden presentation plaque.  This award is currently displayed proudly in his work station at the Police Department.

From 1997 through 2005 St. Charles Police operated as an independent Tactical Unit (TRU).  In 2005 our team merged with the Kane County Sheriff’s Tactical Team to form a joint S.W.A.T Team.  This merger has proven to be a very successful endeavor for both agencies as well as team members.  The camaraderie and dedication of this team was on display during the presentation of this award and it was very evident in the level of respect team members have for Mike.

 Det. Griesbaum enjoyed a brief hiatus from the team from 2004 through 2005 when he was deployed on active duty to Kuwait with his U.S. Marine Corps Reserve Unit.  Det. Griesbaum retired from the USMC in April, 2005 at the rank of Master Sergeant after serving honorably for 20 years.  Upon his return he served again with the S.W.A.T. Team until his retirement in June, 2010.  Shortly afterward, he was assigned to the Investigations Division as a Detective.

 Congratulations Mike!   Well Done and Semper Fi