U.S. Attorney Clay Joyner Honored with Renowned Patriot Award

Oxford — The community of Oxford, Mississippi witnessed a momentous occasion on Friday, March 29, 2024, as U.S. District Attorney for the Northern District Clay Joyner was awarded the prestigious Patriot Award. Organised by the U.S. Department of Defense, the ceremony was a poignant recognition of the unwavering support Joyner showcased for his employees who serve in the Guard and Reserve.

Support Beyond the Workplace

One such employee, Lt. Col. Steven Jackson, who serves with the Mississippi Army National Guard and also as a law enforcement coordinator with the United States Attorney’s Office, found solace in Joyner’s support during his deployment overseas in March 2023. The support and encouragement Jackson received from Joyner played a significant role in his journey. Appreciative of the same, upon his return to Oxford in February 2024, Jackson nominated Joyner for the Patriot Award.

Significance of the Patriot Award

It’s important to note that the Patriot Award isn’t an ordinary commendation. It is the highest recognition offered by the U.S. government to employers, acknowledging their outstanding support of employees serving in the Guard and Reserve. Recipients are usually nominated by a guardsman or reservist who wishes to express gratitude towards their supportive supervisors or bosses.

The Ceremony

Joyner received this illustrious award in a brief yet heartfelt ceremony in Oxford. The presentation was made by W.O. Jones, Vice Chair of the Mississippi Employer Support of the Guard and Reserve through the Department of Defense, at the U.S. Attorney’s Office.

Joyner’s Humble Acknowledgement

In the company of his colleagues and fellow employees at the U.S. Attorney’s Office, an overwhelmed Joyner graciously accepted the award. He said, “I can’t really think of anything more humbling than receiving something called a patriotic employer from a gentleman such as this”, referring to Jackson. Sharing the fruits of his recognition, he added, “I’m proud to accept it, but I’m not accepting it just for myself … everything that was done was done by these people right here”.

Joyner’s Notable Tenure

Joyner has been serving as the U.S. Attorney for the Northern District since March 2021. His leadership has been substantiated by his responsibility and care for his employees, a virtue that undoubtedly earned him this recognition.

Jackson’s Valiant Service

Jackson, originally from Kemper County near Philadelphia, has a stellar record of over 21 years of service in the Mississippi Army National Guard. His service includes four overseas deployments in Iraq, Afghanistan, Jordan, Kuwait, and South America. His nomination of Joyner for the Patriot Award exemplifies the profound camaraderie and mutual respect between them.

This event marks a refreshing reminder of genuine patriotism that extends beyond borders and supports those in service, a commendation that Clay Joyner truly deserved.