December 9, 2022 – Two dedicated team members from the City of Midland were recently selected as the 2022 Carl and Esther Gerstacker Police and Firefighter of the Year award winners. Midland Police Department Officer Steve Pomranky was named the City’s 2022 Police Officer of the Year, while Midland Fire Department Firefighter Ed Peake was honored as the 2022 Firefighter of the Year.
Officer Pomranky is a 21-year veteran of the Midland Police Department (MPD), joining the Midland Police Department in 2001 after serving with the Gladwin County Sheriffs Office. He has served as a leader on the MPD S.W.A.T. (Special Weapons and Tactics) team, field training officer, defensive tactics instructor, firearms instructor, and was an instructor at the Northeastern Police Academy. According to his peers, Ofc. Pomranky was nominated for this award for his quiet, 
empathetic demeanor; dedication to proactively serving the community; strong work ethic; and his continued effort to go the extra mile to help residents, fellow officers, and officers’ families in need.
Firefighter Peake began his career with the Midland Fire Department (MFD) in 2006 and serves as a firefighter at Station 3 and acting fire truck operator and lieutenant when needed. His peers nominated him for the annual award for his extensive experience, hard work ethic, and continued sharing of knowledge with both veteran and new firefighters. In addition, his heroic actions led to the saving of both lives and property earlier this year. In June, FF Peake entered a smoke-filled home during a kitchen fire to rescue an elderly resident with disabilities, likely saving her life. While lifesaving rescues are not common during house fires, this rescue was FF Peake’s third during his 16-year career with MFD. In July, his quick thinking and on-scene experience significantly limited damage during a commercial fire.
This year’s winners were honored at a ceremony at the Midland Country Club in October. Awards are funded through and given by the Midland Area Community Foundation. The selection process and awards ceremony are coordinated by the Midland Exchange Club.