As a boatswain’s mate aboard the Coast Guard Cutter Valiant, homeported in Mayport, Florida, Ward has participated in various missions and unit activities for nearly four years. Yet over the past year, Ward consistently undertook duties and responsibilities above his pay grade. In addition to earning E-6 and above qualifications as deck watch officer and officer of the day, Ward served as a small boat operator and led seven counter-drug pursuits, resulting in the seizure of five vessels, arrests of 16 smugglers, and the recovery of $116 million worth of narcotics. During one chase, Ward pursued drug smugglers for more than 110 miles, resulting in their eventual capture. Ward also participated in several migrant interdictions, one of which received international media attention, with articles being published as far away as Japan.
“One of the biggest things about being a coxswain is the safety of your crew,” Ward said. “It feels good to help prevent this material from coming in. It helps make an impact on the community by keeping people from getting affected by drugs.”
When he wasn’t chasing after smugglers, Ward helped with administrative tasks at his unit. He oversaw the maintenance of more than 700 nautical charts, which assisted in the ship’s navigation. He also participated in his unit’s Leadership and Diversity Advisory Council by organizing displays, presentations, and special meals for six cultural observances. He volunteered for, and attended the three-week long Senior Bridge Management course, further sharpening his professional skills. As the deck watch officer, Ward managed navigational operations as the ship transited through the Panama Canal more than once, even during a night transit.
A native of Fernandina Beach, Ward frequently volunteers in the local community at different events. Some of the events he’s participated in include a Mayport Beach cleanup and a Special Olympics surfing competition.
“We, as Coast Guardsmen, have an obligation to step outside our normal duties and help our local communities,” Ward said.
In addition to his community work, Ward also took time to speak to students at a school for children diagnosed with autism and other disabilities. In December, Ward assisted in organizing a Toys for Tots drive aboard the Valiant as well as help cook dinner for more than 400 homeless people at a Jacksonville shelter.
“To me, BM2 Ward is that perfect mix of the hard worker, great shipmate, and ideal Coast Guard representative,” said Cmdr. Adam Chamie, commanding officer of the Cutter Valiant. “Having served with BM2 for the past two years, I know he will make a phenomenal representative for our service. I’m extremely proud of him and grateful for all his contributions to our ship and the community.”
Ward, along with several of his crewmembers, used his free time during a port call in San Juan, Puerto Rico, to deliver donated toys and books to children at an orphanage.
“That had the biggest emotional effect on me,” Ward said. “You see how much these kids are in need. I felt humbled by the experience and grateful for what we did. That experience helped put things into perspective.”
He and several members of Valiant’s crew also volunteered to assist with restoration efforts on the Coast Guard Cutter Ingham, which now operates as a museum in Key West. In the spirit of giving back to his community, Ward wants to continue to serve his country. Looking toward the future, one of his career goals is to apply for, and attend, the Coast Guard’s Officer Candidate School.
“I want to be an officer because I want to seek more responsibilities, more leadership challenges and continue to make an impact in the Coast Guard,” said Ward.
From helping navigate his ship, to performing administrative tasks, to pursuing smugglers, Ward has dedicated his time to his unit and his shipmates. His charity work extends to his local community as well as communities far away. And his willingness to serve his country continues.
“I’m excited for the opportunities this recognition will provide me,” said Ward. “It is an absolute honor to be recognized, but now the true challenge begins.”