Oskaloosa Swears In Two New Officers

Cale Holmberg being sworn in as an Oskaloosa Police Officer by Mayor Pro Tem Bob Drost. (image from city council broadcast)

During Monday night’s Oskaloosa City Council meeting, Mayor Pro Tem Bob Drost swore in two new officers to the Oskaloosa Police Department.

Mayor Pro Tem Drost administered the Oath of Office to new Police Officers Cale Holmberg and Richard Fortney.

Cale Holmberg’s journey from the sports arenas of Oskaloosa High School to the front lines of local law enforcement, Holmberg, a native of Oskaloosa, has been known in his community for his athletic abilities and leadership on the field. As a senior, he led his varsity football team to success, earning the title Most Valuable Player, among other accolades.

But his ambitions stretched beyond the playing field.
After graduating high school, Holmberg pursued a degree in Criminal Justice at Indian Hills Community College, a path made possible through local scholarships.

This spring, he celebrated not just his graduation but the beginning of a career dedicated to the service of his hometown. Holmberg has now joined the Oskaloosa Police Department, ready to protect and serve the community that has supported him every step of the way.

Holmberg enjoys fishing, playing sports, and spending time with his loved ones when he’s not uniform.

Richard Fortney being sworn in once again as an Oskaloosa Police Officer by Mayor Pro Tem Bob Drost. (image from city council broadcast)

Richard Fortney, a name many in Oskaloosa and surrounding areas are familiar with, has charted a path that cuts across public safety, healthcare, and military service, returning full circle to serve the community he calls home.

Raised in Eldon and a proud graduate of Cardinal High School in 2008, Fortney’s journey into public service began at the University of Northern Iowa. There, as a Presidential Scholar, he excelled academically, earning a bachelor’s degree in criminology with honors in 2011. He also showcased his athletic abilities by joining the NCAA Division 1 Track and Field Team as a walk-on in his senior year.

Fortney’s commitment to law enforcement was evident early in his career, starting with the Oskaloosa Police Department immediately after college. He then took on the role of Police Chief for the City of Richland, where he was instrumental in reviving a dissolved department.

Fortney expanded his skills into healthcare, earning his credentials as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) from Indian Hills Community College. His role as an officer and EMT/Firefighter in Sigourney, followed by his tenure with the Mahaska Health Partnership, showed commitment to community welfare.

Fortney’s work extends beyond civilian roles into the military realm. As a Combat Medic with the Iowa Army National Guard, he serves as a Sergeant and Squad leader at Camp Dodge.

With over a decade of experience in law enforcement, military training, and healthcare, Fortney is back in Oskaloosa.

Outside of his professional life, Fortney enjoys playing music, reading, and quality time with his family.