Master Trooper Alexander Willis Retires After 35 Years of Service

Pendleton, IN - Master Trooper Alexander Willis has retired after serving more than 35 years with the Indiana State Police. The Pendleton Post hosted a reception to recognize his service and to present him with a wooden plaque and the United States flag flown at the post on Friday May 21^st, 2021 which was his last working day.

Master Trooper Willis enlisted in the United States Marine Corps in 1980 and attended boot camp in San Diego, California. Upon graduating, he was assigned to New River Air Station in Jacksonville, North Carolina where he served until receiving an honorable discharge in 1984.

He graduated from the 43^rd Indiana State Police recruit school in November 1985 and was assigned to the Pendleton Post. In 1999 he was selected to join the Governor’s Protection Detail. While there he served as part of the security team for Governor Frank O’Bannon, Governor Joe Kernan, and Governor Mitch Daniels. He returned to the Pendleton Post in 2004 where he worked until 2008 when he transferred to the Commercial Vehicle Enforcement Division. In 2019, knowing retirement was close, Master Trooper Willis wanted to end his career the way it began. He returned home to the Pendleton Post and finished his career as a road trooper in Madison County.

Master Trooper Willis served the United States and the State of Indiana for over 40 years. He put on his uniform every day with pride and expected others to do the same. He credited his successful career on his ability to resist hate and anger while always finding a way to laugh. The Indiana State Police family and countless local agencies thank him for his service and friendship. We also wish him happiness as he transitions into retirement.