Larry Balmer’s commitment to his fellow citizens is apparent in the work that he does. A former South Bend police officer and Air Force veteran, he was a public servant for over three decades.

Balmer began his career as a South Bend police officer and graduated from the Indiana Law Enforcement Academy in 1974. As a police officer, he worked in narcotics, training and co-directed a large-scale sting operation called “Deals on Wheels” which involved multiple agencies in several counties.

In the Air Force, Balmer served in several capacities. He was the Chief of Firearms and Tactics at the USAF Special Investigations Academy, where he formulated and managed a multi-million dollar budget. Balmer was also a special agent, working in counter-intelligence, counter-espionage and providing dignitary protective services, including security detail for three US presidents during overseas and domestic visits.

For his service, Balmer was awarded several Air Force honors including a Meritorious Service Medal, a Commendation Medal with two oak leaf clusters, an Achievement Medal, a Good Conduct Medal with four oak leaf clusters, a National Defense Service Medal with Service Star and several other organizational and training awards.

Balmer currently works as a compliance officer and consultant, specializing in developing and implementing anti-fraud and abuse programs for health care entities such as hospitals and private medical practices.

Balmer and Marsha, his wife of 35 years, have two children and four grandchildren. He serves as an officer for the Marshall County chapter of the Disabled American Veterans and previously served as a board member of Marshall County Older Adult Services and also as Council President of the First United Church of Christ in Plymouth. In addition, he is a member of the Association of Former OSI Special Agents, the Health Care Compliance Association and the Radiology Business Managers Association.

Visit Balmer’s website at www.balmerforsenate.org.