How do I put my life into a short narrative when it is difficult to limit what enabled me to be an officer with the University of Texas in Arlington. I will always try and represent UTA Police Department through positive actions. I am a direct reflection of their leadership, the training and guidance I have received since joining the department which I believe to be outstanding. I have been blessed by great people in my life who have guided, mentored, challenged and enabled me to succeed which I can only attribute to God having a vested interest in me.
I retired from the Army as a Command Sergeant Major (CSM) looking for that next career, having completed all the requirements to set myself up for a good job. I graduated Magna Cum Laude with a MBA from Trident University. During my time in the military I had a Top Secret Special Compartmentalized Information Security Clearance and worked at executive level positions, but I could not find a job with the same personal satisfaction and pride. I was stopped by a UT Arlington Police Officer at a Veterans job fair and told that I could be a Police officer with UT System. I had found my next career and extended family at UTA and I look forward every day to making a positive impact on others.
I was born in St Paul Minnesota but grew up in Wisconsin working on farms, hunting, fishing and playing sports which I believe developed my work ethic and desire to give my best. I grew up in a patriotic service minded family and credit my dad who was a Navy Veteran and Baptist preacher as the most influential role model in my life.
I enlisted at age 17 and served 4 years in the Army Reserves. My wife Laura (college sweetheart) and I were married in 1985 and Laura has stood right by my side as we served this country on active duty until I retired in 2016 after 36 years in the Army. I was amazed every day to look at my career and the opportunities I and my family were given. I served all over the world but it was hard to say it was a job since I always figured ways to enjoy every assignment with my family and to build a bond for the times we were separated or I was in combat. I believe that the family bond that we built instilled the desire to serve in my family as well. My wife has volunteered with the Red Cross, our church and other military organizations making an impact in many lives and we are also proud of our children as they carry that legacy of service. Our son Blake (Army Staff Sergeant) his wife Ashley and daughter Kaydence are stationed at Ft Campbell Kentucky and our daughter Rebecca and her husband Mason (Army Sergeant) stationed in Germany.
I was honored to be nominated and serve as Sergeant Major for the Office of Administrative Assistant to the Secretary of the Army, testify before congress on Soldier safety and represent the Army on multiple occasions while stationed at the Pentagon. I served as the Army’s senior enlisted member on a Congressional Working Group for the Secretary of Defense. I served 36 total months in combat over multiple deployments. I fought in Desert Storm, fought during the Iraq invasion in 2003 and deployed as the CSM for 2nd Brigade Special Troops Battalion 1st Cavalry Division in 2006, we made a difference improving lives of the people in Baghdad. I have been awarded many medals and ribbons to include the Legion of Merit, 2 Bronze Stars and the Purple Heart. I was a Paratrooper, Drill Sergeant and Recruiter but my greatest pleasure beside my family is mentoring and watching young adults mature into positive leaders.
I am privileged to have been given this opportunity by UTA to continue service and the ability to make a difference in our community. Thank you.
