Hero to History: Police Officer Becomes Birmingham VA’s First Competitor in World Police & Fire Games
By Jessie Box, Public Affairs Specialist
On the quiet track of Mountain Brook High School, a figure moves with focused intensity.
U.S. Army Veteran and VA Police Officer LT. Anderson Williams, dressed in athletic gear instead of his usual uniform, charges down the lane, running in stride through the finish line. The sound of footsteps and a sharp exhale of his breath echo off the bleachers in the scorching Alabama heat.
Williams isn’t preparing for a standard shift at the Birmingham VA. He’s training for a unique opportunity—to be the first to represent the Birmingham VA at the 2025 World Police & Fire Games, an international event drawing thousands of public safety officers from around the globe. This year, the honor of hosting belongs to Birmingham, and Williams is proud to represent both the city and Birmingham VA.
“My service in law enforcement equates to almost 40 years, with over 30 of those [years] being within the city of Birmingham” Williams says, wiping sweat from his brow. “The Veterans I serve and protect every day gave their all for this country and I can relate. You get to know them, their families, and their kids. I’ve formed many close friendships and bonds so competing in these games is special.”
The 2025 World Police & Fire Games, often described as “The Games of Heroes,” will feature more than 8,500 athletes across 70 countries competing in over 60 sports, ranging from basketball and swimming to ballet, grappling and Jiu-Jitsu, to name a few. Out of upwards of 1,600 medal events, Williams has signed up for the 100 Meter and 200 Meter in track and field, drawing on his military background and experience.
“I started track and field when I got out of the military at 32 years old, so I was actually late to the game,” said Williams. “I’ve never had much speed on me but have always been able to run distance, even now at 63. I met a group of guys in law enforcement that ran, and we teamed up to form a running group; I’ve been at it since.”
For nearly 8 months, his training sessions have included sprints and plyometric drills at the high school track, and weightlifting sessions at the Birmingham Police Fitness Academy before sunrise.
When asked why he chose a local high school as one of his main training locations, Williams explains, “I have worked alongside and come to know many officers over the years. Those connections and relationships presented the opportunity for me to train without distractions while remaining connected to the community.”
Williams balances his intensive training with full-time duties at the VA. He credits his Colleagues for their ongoing support of him.
“Police Chief Burrow is an amazing leader and tremendous person to work under. I brag on him and the department all the time,” says Williams. “For them to support me so I can fully lean into this opportunity is something that I really appreciate.”
Birmingham VA Chief of Police Quinton Burrow sees Williams’ commitment as contagious. “Lieutenant Williams’ endeavors and commitment to compete in the World Police & Fire Games, not only spotlights the Birmingham VA but has inspired our entire department to strive for and reach our personal health goals,” he says. “His perseverance, discipline, training regiment, and mindset are the tip of the iceberg for what he gives this department day in and day out. He truly exemplifies the meaning of inspiration.”
With the Games just days away, Williams remains focused. His goal isn’t just to bring home a medal—it’s to represent Birmingham VA with pride and to show that service never stops. “As a Veteran myself, it warms my heart,” he says, lacing up his shoes. “To have the opportunity to be the first to represent the Birmingham VA and our VA police department is a great honor.”
View the schedule below if you would like to attend the Games and show your support for Lt. Anderson Williams.
- 100 Meter Trial, Ages 60-64 – July 1 at 10:20 a.m.
- 100 Meter Final, Ages 60-64 – July 2 at 10:10 a.m.
- 200 Meter Heat, Ages 60-64 – July 3 at 11:50 a.m.
- 200 Meter Final, Ages 60-64 – July 4 at 1:15 p.m.
The 2025 World Police & Fire Games competition will be held from June 27 to July 6 in Birmingham, Alabama.
Visit the World Police Fire & Games website here to learn more.
Want to volunteer? Click here to learn how you can become a volunteer for the Games.