The Town of Middletown has named longtime farmer and community volunteer Gary Clem its 2026 Citizen of the Year and Detective Sandy Seabaugh its 2026 Employee of the Year.
Both honorees will be formally recognized during Middletown’s America 250 Independence Day Celebration.
Gary Clem named Citizen of the Year
The Middletown Town Council selected Clem in recognition of his decades of volunteer service and the extensive behind-the-scenes work he performs for town events, community organizations and local residents.
Clem has helped prepare for Middletown’s Fourth of July festivities, coordinated logistics for Christmas parades, maintained town decorations and assisted the fire department. He is frequently among the first volunteers to arrive and the last to leave.
Many of his contributions take place outside the public spotlight but have become an important part of the town’s annual traditions.
Residents who nominated Clem described him as someone who “never says no” when his neighbors or the town need assistance. He has provided trucks, tractors, wagons, hay and storage space and has spent countless hours hauling equipment, storing banners and preparing materials used during community celebrations.
His work has included everything from helping with Santa’s mailbox and parade lineup numbers to transporting supplies and maintaining decorations.
“Oftentimes farmers get overlooked for civic awards, and it is important that we acknowledge their valuable contributions to our community,” Mayor Charles Harbaugh IV said. “We are so thankful for what Gary does behind the scenes to make Middletown such a special place. His dedication, generosity and humility embody the spirit of this award.”
Clem was born and raised in the Middletown area and graduated from James Wood High School in 1973.
He spent 40 years working in the grocery industry, including leadership positions with Grand Union and Safeway. He and his wife, Tina, married in 1978 and raised two children before eventually returning to the family farm.
Clem continues to farm the property and is often seen driving his tractor through town.
A lifelong baseball player, he also continues to share his love of the game with his grandchildren. At one point in his younger years, he played on five teams at the same time.
Town officials said Clem’s reliability, generosity and willingness to work without seeking recognition made him a particularly deserving recipient of the Citizen of the Year award.
Sandy Seabaugh named Employee of the Year
Middletown selected Detective Sandy Seabaugh as its 2026 Employee of the Year in recognition of her law-enforcement service, professional accomplishments and commitment to the community.
Seabaugh immigrated to the United States from El Salvador with her mother in 2001, when she was 10 years old, after her father’s application for asylum was approved.
She faced the challenges of adjusting to a new country, language and culture and later pursued a career in public safety.
Before becoming a police officer, Seabaugh worked as a security officer at Lord Fairfax Community College, which is now Laurel Ridge Community College.
After receiving encouragement from Chief Roy, she attended the police academy and later served as a police officer at the college’s Middletown campus.
She subsequently joined the Middletown Police Department, where she has served for the past six years and risen to the rank of detective.
While continuing to work full time, Seabaugh has also pursued additional education. She is currently working toward a doctorate in law and policy at Liberty University.
Harbaugh described Seabaugh as a positive influence and role model.
“Sandy is a beacon of positivity and a wonderful role model for young women to aspire to be,” Harbaugh said. “She represents the very best of Middletown and is truly a gem of an employee.”
Frederick County Sheriff Lenny Millholland also praised Seabaugh’s dedication to public service.
“Your dedication as a police officer and your unwavering commitment to serving others truly set you apart,” Millholland said. “You consistently go above and beyond the call of duty, making a positive difference in the lives of those around you.”
Middletown Police Chief Gary Benedict Jr. said Seabaugh’s work made her deserving of the recognition.
“I was very pleased to hear that Detective Seabaugh was selected as Middletown’s Employee of the Year,” Benedict said. “She does great work and is very deserving of this award. I know she will be honored and appreciative to receive this recognition.”
Town officials said Seabaugh’s personal journey, continued education and work with the police department reflect her determination and commitment to the safety and well-being of Middletown residents.
Clem and Seabaugh will be honored during Middletown’s America 250 Independence Day Celebration. Town officials said their stories reflect two different forms of public service: Clem’s generations-deep connection to the community and Seabaugh’s perseverance and pursuit of a career serving others.
Information from a release. Edited by Dan McDermott for warrencountyva.com
