Congressman Mike Lawler, who represents New York’s 17th Congressional District, used his social media platform to commemorate the anniversary of a significant and tragic event in Rockland County’s history, as well as to highlight an annual initiative honoring local veterans.
On October 20, 2025, Lawler posted, “October 20, 1981, is a day that forever changed Rockland County. On that day, a group of domestic terrorists killed Brinks guard Peter Paige and seriously wounded his partner, Joseph Trombino, outside the Nanuet National Bank at the Nanuet Mall. The perpetrators stole $1.6”. The tweet references the infamous Brink’s robbery, an event that resulted in multiple deaths and injuries and had lasting effects on the community.
In a follow-up post on October 21, 2025, Lawler wrote, “Nyack Sgt. Edward O’Grady, Nyack Officer Waverly “Chipper” Brown, and Brinks guard Peter Paige will never be forgotten in Rockland County. On October 20, 1981, a group of domestic terrorists from the Weather Underground killed Brinks guard Peter Paige and seriously wounded his”. This message further memorializes those lost and injured during the incident, specifically naming law enforcement officers and security personnel affected by the attack.
Later that same day, Lawler shifted focus to recognize local service members, stating on October 21, 2025: “Each year, I have the honor of recognizing outstanding veterans from New York’s 17th Congressional District as our Veterans of the Year. If you know a veteran who deserves recognition, I invite you to submit a nomination using the form below. Please complete your submission by”.
The events referenced by Lawler pertain to the 1981 Brink’s armored car robbery in Nanuet, New York. Members of radical groups including the Weather Underground and Black Liberation Army carried out the attack, resulting in the deaths of two police officers and a security guard during both the robbery and ensuing shootout. The incident is widely regarded as one of the most notorious crimes in Rockland County history.
Congressman Mike Lawler’s annual Veterans of the Year program seeks to honor military service members residing within his district by encouraging public nominations for recognition.
