A Career of Service and Sacrifice

Joel Ward, member of Wildcatter CrossFit, just retired from the Tulsa Police Department after 34 years of service.

Joel spent his career wearing a lot of hats: Auto Theft Detective, Mingo Valley Division Patrol Officer, Mingo Valley Street Crimes, Special Investigations, and an original member of the Special Response Team. Along the way he earned 20 commendations, including a Medal of Valor and a Chief’s Unit Award.

At the same time, Joel gave 31 years to the Oklahoma Army National Guard. He was commissioned in 1981, deployed during Desert Storm and Desert Shield, served in New Orleans after Hurricane Katrina, and commanded the 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, the Thunderbirds, during combat operations in Afghanistan from 2011 to 2012. He retired from the Guard as a Colonel in 2012 after 31 years of service. His military awards include the Combat Infantry Badge with Star, the Bronze Star, the Meritorious Service Medal, the Oklahoma Distinguished Service Medal, and the Legion of Merit.

Two careers. Both spent protecting and serving. That is a rare kind of dedication!

Even amongst a career like that, Joel still shows up to class multiple days a week to take care of his health. That says a lot about who he is and the discipline standard he holds.

Joel, thank you for your service to this country and your community. We are grateful to have you as part of the Wildcatter community. Congratulations on your retirement!