Officer Charles “Chuck” Nail retired from the U.S. Park Police on August 30 after 23 years of distinguished service. Nail began his career in August 1985. After Nail graduated from the Federal Law Enforcement Center in Glynco, Ga., the USPP assigned him to patrol duties. His assignments included covering the National Capital Parks – East; the George Washington Memorial Parkway; and Staten Island, N.Y.

While Nail was on assignment at the GWMP, he worked on a multi-agency boat-enforcement detail in the Great Falls area of the Potomac River. During this detail he participated in numerous rescues, one of which the Rescue 911 television series reenacted. He received commendations and a lifesaving award for his efforts on this detail.  Also, Nail served as a liaison officer with the National Park Service, GWMP and the Road Runners Club of America.

In May 1991 Nail became a horse-mounted officer. The USPP briefly assigned him to the Fort Hunt stables. After that assignment, he then finished his career patrolling the National Mall and surrounding parks. Nail had the opportunity to be involved in many historical events as they unfolded in our nation’s capital during his time as an HMP officer on the National Mall. He helped provide law-enforcement assistance to the Million Man March, Promise Keepers Rally, Anti-War demonstrations, NFL on the Mall, and terrorist attacks of 9/11. In addition, he provided law-enforcement support at the inaugurals of Presidents G.H. Bush, Clinton, and G.W. Bush.

Nail also traveled, assisting with the national conventions in Boston and Philadelphia; a river regatta in Charlestown, W.Va.; and a Rainbow Family detail in Mark Twain National Forest, Mo.

As a rider, Nail competed in police horse competitions. He took first place in competitions in Virginia and Maryland events. On a national level, Nail placed several times in the top 10 for obstacle courses. He placed second in a Virginia Beach competition in 1999 and third in a Canadian competition in 2004.

Nail is a first sergeant in the New York Air National Guard stationed in Virginia. He was deployed to Iraq as part of his unit after 9/11. Nail is retiring from police work; however he continues his service to the military.