The Columbus Division of Police took to social media today to honor the distinguished career of Sergeant Benjamin Presley, heralding his retirement with a detailed account of his service that spanned both city streets and military battlefields. The announcement, which highlights a career marked by dedication and heroism, provides a timeline of Sergeant Presley's tenure, noting that he began his journey with the 78th Recruit Class in 1990. A brief departure from the Training Academy occurred in January 1991, when Presley was pulled during the first Gulf War, an interruption in his police training.
Upon returning, Sergeant Presley completed his training with the 82nd recruit class, marking the start of his longstanding commitment to law enforcement and community service. Throughout his career, Presley served in various roles within the Columbus Division of Police, including an assignment to the storied one precinct in the Short North and a six-year tenure in the Helicopter Unit. After being promoted to Sergeant, he served in Ohio, taking on responsibilities such as the Auto Theft Unit Supervisor.
Not one to shy away from service to his country, Sergeant Presley was activated for Operation Iraqi Freedom in 2009. His dedication saw him flying 225 combat missions and logging over 500 combat hours as the lead pilot on the F-2 mission set for Lieutenant General Frank Helmick. This tenure earned him accolades such as the Meritorious Service and Air Medal. The Columbus Division of Police's social media post proudly recounts how Presley returned to the Helicopter Unit for three years before accepting assignments in SRB Enforcement, Criminal Intelligence, and OBC Investigative A. Among his notable accomplishments, while serving as a pilot, Presley rescued a Division Helicopter from the Scioto River by piloting an Army Blackhawk.
Presley's career, which ventured beyond the borders of Columbus to touch the broader tapestry of national service, was lauded in the social media announcement, communicating a heartfelt "Thank you" for his service to not only local citizens but also to those of the entire nation. The Columbus Division of Police's expression of gratitude, along with a wish for Presley to enjoy a well-deserved retirement, caps off what can only be called a career defined by stalwart dedication in both law enforcement and military service.
