Local sheriff earns National War College degree

YUMA, Ariz. (KYMA, KECY) - A captain with the Yuma County Sheriff's Office (YCSO) earns his degree from the National War College program.

Captain Kelly Milner shared what he learned and how he can apply it to his job with the sheriff's office.

Milner, the Detention Bureau Commander with YCSO, starts by saying, "I am an adamant believer that leaders are lifetime learners."

That's exactly what he did when he earned his Master of Science degree in National Security Strategy at the National Defense University in Washington DC.

Milner shares, "It was a steep learning curve being there, but definitely an honor being sent by the National Guard."

Milner is also a Lieutenant Colonel for the Arizona National Guard and was chosen by the branch to attend the prestigious 10 month program.

The curriculum at the National War College prepares senior military and civilian leaders for strategic leadership, global threats, and interagency coordination.

Milner shared what he learned during his courses and says he looks forward to using those skills to benefit the community.

"They were about understanding the context of a country, and working with that country or partner nation, to make them stronger. I think I can apply some of those principles here, as far as working with my peers, and developing some strategies to continue to improve the services we provide to Yuma County," he explained.

Milner has been with YCSO since 2002 and has over 30 years of military experience under his belt.

He says he would gladly take the opportunity to take a course again if it were to present itself in the future.