District Attorney Matt Ballard Recognized by U.S. Colonel for Supporting Military Members and their Service

19 May District Attorney Matt Ballard Recognized by U.S. Colonel for Supporting Military Members and their Service

District Attorney Matt Ballard received an award this afternoon from U.S. Army Colonel Jack Ritter for Ballard’s support of the Oklahoma National Guard’s Joint Task Force during response operations throughout Oklahoma in 2019.

The event was to happen toward the beginning of 2020 however the COVID pandemic required it be postponed until today. 

Ballard employs both former and active military members.  His Chief of Prosecution Isaac Shields is also a U.S. Army Lieutenant Colonel.  And Ballard’s ADA George Gibbs is a Former Marine Sergeant.

Of being recognized as an employer who readily supports servicemen and veterans on the job he says  “I don’t think I’ve done anything a responsible employer wouldn’t do.  Those serving in the military are doing the hard work.  They’re on the front lines; I have a lot of gratitude for everything they do.”

Colonel Ritter told the crowd  “The Guard is only successful because we have that kind of support from the employers, as well as the families.  He (Ballard) has been a great support for us.” 

Shields says about those assembled in Judge Condren’s Rogers County courtroom to honor Ballard  “I look around in the group here today and there’s a lot of people who are former military that are here that serve your office and work with your office and I think it speaks volumes that they’re all here to see you receive this award because we’re all grateful for what you do and the example you set for other employers.” 

Presenting the plaque Ritter said “On behalf of the State and Adjunct General of Oklahoma it’s a small token, it never gives justice to what a person and a family and an employer gives up to help people in need.  But we certainly appreciate it.”

Matt Ballard is the District Attorney in District 12:  Craig, Mayes and Rogers Counties in Oklahoma.