Tony Wood becomes first ever Troy Highway Patrol chaplain
Published 3:00 am Wednesday, November 1, 2017
The Rev. Tony Wood of Troy was sworn in Tuesday as the first chaplain of the Troy Highway Patrol Post.
Wood was sworn in by Col. Charles Ward, Alabama Public Safety director, during the Post’s monthly meeting at the Pike County Courthouse.
Post Commander Jimmy Helms said Wood will provide spiritual help and guidance to the Post and assist the highway patrol officers in making death notifications and in providing comfort to those in need.
Ward said it was an honor to swear Wood in as the Troy Highway Patrol Post chaplain.
“What we do as members of the Alabama Highway Patrol is important but what you do is the most important,” Ward said. “There is integrity behind every Highway Patrol badge and I am confident that you will serve the Post as its chaplain with the same integrity.”
Wood said the one word that would describe his allegiance is obedient.
“I am obedient to my King, to my family and to my duties,” Wood said as he accepted the role of Post chaplain.
When serving first responders, the chaplain’s role is varied, Ward said.
“When there are incidents and accidents — tragic situations — those directly involved find strength, support and comfort in family, in friends and in the clergy,” he said. “But the first responders go back to their jobs and they often need the support and comfort that a chaplain can provide.”
As the chaplain for the Obedient Walkers Ministries in Troy, Wood was already serving other first responders in the Troy and Pike county areas. Then, God laid it on his heart to extend chaplain services to include the Troy Highway Patrol Post, which includes Pike, Barbour, Butler and Crenshaw counties.
“All first responders are dedicated to serving their communities,” Wood said. “They are too often unsung heroes. Obedient Walk Ministries is dedicated to serving the first responder family.”
As chaplain for Obedient Walk Ministries and now the Troy Highway Patrol Post, Wood said his commitment is to stand with those who are left to stand alone when a crisis is over.
“As chaplains, we strive to serve others through the demonstration of brotherly love in action and word by following the teachings of Jesus Christ,” Wood said.