oming to the Ardmore Police Department in 1997, after working for Lone Grove's department, Officer O'Neal served on the Ardmore Bike Patrol, in Narcotics and is now on the midnight shift in the Patrol Division and Team Leader on the Special Response Team. In June 2000, he completed his Firearms Instructor certification and is currently over the Police Dept. Firearms Training.
Soon after being employed, Officer O'Neal received the Medal of Valor. Tony Garrett, Chief of Police described the event. "On an evening of heavy rains, while on patrol, Officer O'Neal noticed a van in a ditch with water quickly rising over the van's roof. Realizing that someone was still inside the van, he quickly climbed on top of the van and broke one of the side windows. Disregarding his own personal safety, Officer O'Neal entered the van, blindly felt through the water for the occupant and pulled her to safety. Officer O'Neal's brave and expedient actions saved this woman's life."

      Recently, while on routine patrol, Officer O'Neal noticed smoke coming from a residence and saved the occupants by pulling them to safety and securing medical attention.
     

For this act, he is being considered for a second Medal of Valor. Asked why Officer O'Neal lives in Ardmore? He states, "I chose Ardmore, because my wife, Sammi, and I grew up in this area and this is where we call home. I like to fish, hunt, scuba dive and help coach my son in wrestling. Here, I can do all of the things I love to do. I have two boys, Tanner, 5, and Connor, 2. I want them to be able to enjoy these things when they get bigger."

The Ardmore Chamber wishes to thank Officer Ian O'Neal and his fellow police officers for their devotion to the citizens of Ardmore. Their constant vigil over the city and willingness to face danger each day is a powerful asset to this community.