The Vinton Police Department and Vinton Town Council welcomed Officer Joshua Chandler to the police force at the council meeting on December 5. Vinton Police Chief Tom Foster introduced Chandler.

Chandler grew up in New Jersey, graduating from high school in Medford Township. After high school, he enlisted in the United States Marine Corps. He reported to MCRD Parris Island for boot camp and was then stationed in Washington State as a Marine Security Force.

He was next stationed in Camp Lejeune, N.C., where he served as an infantryman. During his time at Camp Lejeune, Chandler served in Operation Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, in Kosovo, and in Djibouti, Africa.

In 2005, Chandler moved to Roanoke and became a member of the Roanoke City Police Department. During his time with that department, he served as a patrol officer, in Field Training, and as a detective in several investigative units. He also served in the Roanoke Tactical Response Team with the police department.

Chandler has two daughters, Madison, age 9, and Isabella, age 8. They also participated in the council meeting, leading the Pledge of Allegiance.

Chief Foster told council that he is impressed with the quality of the police officers coming to the Town of Vinton.