Chaplain (Lt. Col.) Paul Ward, CAP

Chaplain Paul Ward is a native Californian. He attended Santa Paula High School, Ventura College and Vanguard University of Southern California in Costa Mesa, California, where he received his Bachelor of Arts Degree in 1973. In 1988, he attained a Master of Ministry Degree from International Seminary.

Paul began his ministry career after receiving his BA degree and served on pastoral staffs in the Southern California area.

He received his Chaplain's appointment from USAF-CAP in October, 1996 and was assigned to Squadron 103, San Luis Obispo.  He has served as the Group 4 chaplain, and a CAWG Deputy Chaplain.  Chaplain Ward currently serves as the California Wing Chaplain and as the Professional Development Officer on the Pacific Region Chaplain’s staff.

He has served as Mission Chaplain at several Mission Bases; on staff for the California Wing Cadet Encampment, serving as the Chief Chaplain (1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002); served on the faculty for Squadron Leadership School, Corporate Learning Course, Pacific Region Chaplain Service Staff College on several occasions and Unit Commander's Course.

Paul has completed CAP'S Senior Level Training Levels I, II, III IV and V receiving the Grover Loening, Paul Garber, and Gill Robb Wilson Awards.   He has also completed the Chaplains Training Courses 221 and 221A, attaining the Master's rating.  Paul also holds a Master’s rating in Cadet Programs and Professional Development.  He has received the Yeager Award for completing the Senior Member Aerospace Education program.   Paul is a graduate of the National Staff College.  He has completed the basic Critical Incident Stress Management, Incident Command System, and the “Train-the-Trainer” courses.  He is one of 6 CAP Chaplains who have attended courses conducted for the active duty and reserve USAF Chaplains at the Chaplain Service Institute, Maxwell AFB.  Paul has been the recipient of the Commander's Commendation Award on seven occasions and the Meritorious Service Award on two occasions.

Chaplain Ward was named CAWG Chaplain of the Year in 2000, the Pacific Region Squadron Chaplain of the Year in 2001, the Pacific Region Senior Chaplain of the Year in 2002, and the National Senior Chaplain of the Year in 2002.

Chaplain Ward served in pastoral ministry for 30 years, retiring from the pulpit ministry and obtaining secular employment so he could devote his time and energy to the CAP Chaplain Service.  He had also served as a volunteer chaplain with public safety agencies for over 20 years.