By Lt. Anthony Peterson
CSP-Corcoran
California State Prison, Corcoran, (COR), staff thanked veterans the entire month of November. Three banners were placed around the prison to thank employees who served in the armed forces.
On Nov. 13, COR held a Veterans Day celebration to honor staff who currently serve or have served in the military. The event was set up for each shift. With over 200 custody and non-custody veterans assigned to COR, leadership wanted to ensure they were honored.
First watch
Executive Managers and volunteer staff met inside the entrance buildings at 5:30 a.m. to greet the active and veteran military staff members as they completed their shift.
Each were provided with homemade breakfast burritos, refreshment and dessert. They also received a letter of appreciation signed by Warden Ken Clark, thanking them for their service and sacrifice. Each letter also contained a small American flag pin.
Second watch
At 12: 30 p.m., a ceremony for the second watch on-duty staff was held at the flag pole in front of the Administrative Building. The ceremony began with the presentation of colors by the COR Honor Guard.
Community Resource Manger Marlene Robicheuax sang the National Anthem as the American flag was raised. Warden Clark and Chief Deputy Warden Martin Gamboa were key speakers at the ceremony.
“We are thankful that we have these opportunities to celebrate with our veterans who fought so bravely to defend and protect our great nation,” said Warden Clark.
Staff enjoyed a barbecue lunch. During the meal, there was a slideshow featuring submitted military photos.
Third watch
Third Watch staff were met at the main gate. They also were given a barbecue lunch, refreshment, dessert, and a letter of appreciation including an American flag pin.
