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Published on March 27, 2024
Fort Worth Police Department Honors First Female Sergeant Olive Wood, a True Pioneer in Law EnforcementSource: Fort Worth Police Department

In a reflection of the tough grit and glass ceiling-shattering moments that define Women's History Month, the Fort Worth Police Department took a moment to celebrate its trailblazer. As part of their #FlashbackFridays feature, the local law enforcement agency spotlighted Olive Wood, who bore the distinction of being the first female Sergeant in their ranks back in 1967. Fort Worth Police Department praised Sergeant Wood for her unwavering determination and the significant impact she made during a time when the uniform wasn't tailored for women and biases were as thick as the walls they had to break through.

Sergeant Wood didn't only rise through the ranks, laying down a path for those to follow, but she took her battle for equality to the courts, famously winning a civil suit that secured her a rightful place in the Criminal Investigation Department. Facing uniform issues and enduring the brunt of bias, her colleagues joined her in the formidable journey to prove that women had more than a token role to play in law enforcement—an achievement highlighted in the Fort Worth Police Department's social media post.

In Sunday's City News edition, the historic efforts of female officers like Sergeant Wood will be detailed, marking not just a celebration of Women's History Month but a reminder of the pioneers who laid the groundwork for progress in one of society's most traditionally male-dominated fields. Wood's tenacious grip on her goals and the leadership she displayed resonate as an inspiration for both women and men in the field today.

The significance of Sergeant Wood's journey in the 1960s is immeasurable, as it reflects not just personal courage but a broader movement toward gender equality. Despite enduring obstacles in every step of her career, Wood smashed stereotypes and emerged not only as a capable law enforcement officer but as a symbol of resilience and strength. Readers can grab a copy of Sunday's edition for the full storied history of the Fort Worth Police Department's female officers and the barriers they conquered.