MURFREESBORO, TN (WGNS News) - Murfreesboro Mayor Shane McFarland presented Police Sgt. Mark Wood with the City’s STARS Award after several letters nominated him for his long-standing compassion and steady leadership within the Homeless Outreach Support Team, better known as HOST. Those nominations paint a picture of a veteran officer who has quietly gone “above and beyond” for years—often stepping in to help citizens and homeless residents in ways that go far beyond his job description, including reaching into his own pocket when no other resources were available.
Officer Robert McAdams, who has worked alongside him for more than 20 years, wrote, "Sgt. Wood is “constantly there when you need him--always ensuring citizens, coworkers, and vulnerable residents get the help they need."
One letter recalled a July 3, 2025 call to the Ramada Inn, where a struggling family—trying to stay employed and regain stability—had blown a tire on the only vehicle they relied on for work. When community resources couldn’t cover the cost, Sgt. Wood quietly paid for the replacement himself. The family included two young children, one just four months old. He never mentioned that he was the one who stepped in; he simply told colleagues the need had been taken care of.
Other accounts describe him buying food for families in crisis and covering a hotel room for a homeless Purple Heart veteran. His colleagues say these moments aren’t exceptions—they’re patterns.
Police Chief Michael Bowen praised Wood’s, “compassion and effectiveness,” calling his work with the homeless community a reflection of deep character and commitment.
Sgt. Wood joined the Murfreesboro Police Department in June 2002. He became a Field Training Officer in 2006, earned promotion to Sergeant in 2011, and served as a canine handler before being selected to lead the HOST unit, where his compassion and steady presence have become well known.
The City’s STARS program—Succeeding Through Attitudes Reflecting Service Excellence—honors employees who embody service, integrity, and a dedication to improving quality of life in Murfreesboro.
