Phillip Read

Veteran Phillip Read served his country from January 2003 to January 2009. At 16, he sat among his fellow high school students and watched the 9/11 attacks. Like the rest of our shocked nation, Phillip didn’t fully understand what was happening, but he knew he wanted to help. Growing up in a military family, in addition to witnessing the 9/11 attacks, Phillip signed up for the Army National Guard at 17. He always knew he wanted to be a part of something larger than himself—like his grandfathers, father, uncles, cousins, brothers, and many others before him. From 2004 to 2005, Phillip was an Infantryman in Operation Enduring Freedom, Afghanistan as a 240 Bravo Machine Gunner. It was during this deployment that he lost two fellow comrades—Phillip says these men are the true heroes, sacrificing everything for their country. A few years later, he was deployed to Operation Iraqi Freedom, Iraq from 2007 to 2008 as an Infantryman Team Leader. For his dedication and service, Phillip received several awards including The Bronze Star Medal, Combat Infantryman Badge, Army Achievement Medal, Global War of Terrorism Service Medal, Armed Forces Reserve Medal, National Defense Service Medal, Operation Enduring Freedom Medal, Operation Iraqi Freedom Medal.

Following his time in the military, Phillip continued to serve his community as a Police Officer with the Harrisonburg Police Department. Starting in the summer of 2009, he continued to climb the ranks landing positions like Patrol Lieutenant and Swat Commander. Phillip has a great love for helping those in need and protecting those that rely on him and his fellow officers. He’s constantly striving to do more and find ways to help—this is how he ended up doing many different jobs including patrol, special operations, investigations, and the swat team. In 2021 Phillip took the Bridgewater Chief of Police position. Shortly after joining the Bridgewater Police Department, an active shooter claimed the lives of two of his officers. Again, Phillip recognizes the sacrifice these men gave and admires them for the heroes they are. He knows the Lord protects him and his family and will continue to serve until he can’t any longer. Phillip has received several awards including the Harrisonburg Police Department Medal of Valor, Harrisonburg Police Department Live Saving Medal, Harrisonburg Police Department Award of Excellence, Harrisonburg Police Foundation 2019 Supervisor of the Year.

In addition to his role as the Bridgewater Police Department’s Chief of Police, Phillip is also a loving husband and father of four. He’s very active at Faith Community Church, a member at the Bridgewater VFW Post #8644 where he helps veterans in various ways and started a non-profit with his wife and friends called Hope Ridge, providing a space to those looking to seek refuge in God.

David Bates from our Harrisonburg, VA office was honored to present Phillip with his award.

*Pictured from left to right: Wesley Dove, Meredith Read, Phillip Read, David Bates