User:Joelhward

== Colonel Joel H. Ward, US Army, Retired ==

A lifetime of distinguished service to the military, our country and the nation. Born and raised in Denison, Texas, he attended High School at Arlington Heights High School in Fort Worth.

He began his military career as a cadet at Arlington State College (now UTA). He was a member of the nationally acclaimed Sam Houston Rifle drill team and ultimately was the corps commander of all ROTC cadets. He was one of the 14 cadets who completed the 160 mile march to Fort Hood in 1960 to attend advance camp. He was a distinguished military graduate and is the only graduate to later return to UTA as the Professor of Military Science. He holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in History from UTA and a Master of Arts degree in Business from Central Michigan University.

He served two tours in Vietnam (Mekong Delta) as an advisor to Vietnamese forces in 1965-66 and 1969-70. While there he earned three bronze stars, one with V device for valor, the air medal, two Vietnam Crosses of Gallantry, the Combat Infantryman Badge, and the Vietnam Service Medal.

He also served in many other assignments such as Operations Officer for the Army Component of North American Defense Command, Office of the Inspector General (Pentagon), Office of the Deputy Chief of Staff for Personnel (Pentagon), Commander, 2d Battalion, 1st Air Defense Artillery, and Special Assistant to the Deputy Commander in Chief, US Army Europe (Nuclear, Pershing II and Air Defense Artillery Matters).

Throughout his military career he has been cited for his ability to accomplish difficult tasks by believing in and supporting his troops.'''

Upon retirement, Colonel Ward chose to return to the Metroplex in 1988. He lives in Arlington, Texas. He and Sue, his wife of 46 years, have 2 living sons, a goddaughter and 7 grandchildren.

In 1993 he was inducted into the Military Hall of Honor at The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA).

In 2003, he retired as VP, Technology Lease Management, Bank of America and continues to support the cadets at UTA. He and Sue, his wife of 46 years have two living sons, a goddaughter and 6 grandchildren.

In 2006 he became a Distinguished Alumni at UTA.