HOOD RIVER CO. — Deputy Joel Carmody received the Oregon State Marine Board’s “Service Excellence Award” for his consistent and exemplary efforts in his marine career, leading through the 2025 boating season.
Marine Deputy Joel Carmody contacts dispatchers over a marine radio inside the cabin of his patrol boat.
Photo courtesy Oregon State Marine Board
“Deputy Carmody has consistently gone above and beyond in youth education, community outreach, and public engagement,” said Brian Paulsen, boating safety program manager for the Marine Board. “His initiative, dedication, leadership, and passion for marine patrol have made a meaningful and lasting impact on recreational boating safety across our communities. His efforts exemplify the highest standards of service, professionalism, and commitment, and he truly deserves this recognition.”
Carmody served the Hood River County Sheriff’s Office for more than 20 years, including four years as its marine deputy. He embraced his assignment to marine patrol and leapt from a beginner with boat operations to a mastery skill level within months. Carmody’s aptitude was recognized early, and he quickly advanced to a Marine Board instructor, serving in marine law enforcement training for Personal Watercraft (PWC) school and annual two-week Marine Law Enforcement Academy.
The Hood River area and robust windsports community on the Columbia River offer water recreators a mecca of opportunities, beyond boating. Carmody took the initiative to embed within the tourist-driven community to learn from locals, look for education gaps, and find ways to engage with local businesses, schools, clubs, and nonprofits. Never afraid to try new experiences, Deputy Carmody participated in Wylde Wind and Water programs to learn SUP wing foiling and other windsports to understand the community’s perspectives better. He even volunteered with the Hood River Aquatics Center and Viento y Agua camp, which he continues in his newly retired status, helping kids learn skills to love, not fear, the water.
Visit Boat.Oregon.gov for information about the Marine Board’s partnership with 30 county Sheriff’s Offices and the Oregon State Police for on-water marine patrol services.
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