Across California, CDCR staff gathered to honor those who lost their lives during the terrorist attacks on September 11, 2001, more commonly known as 9/11.
The attacks resulted in the deaths of 2,750 people in New York, 184 at the Pentagon, and 40 in Pennsylvania, according to the national Transportation Security Administration.
Mule Creek State Prison gathers for special remembrance
Mule Creek State Prison (MCSP) staff held a ceremony to remember the Sept. 11 terror attacks. A prayer from Chaplain Fidel Carrillo followed the National Anthem, sung by Katherine Winton. Speakers included CEO David Smiley and Warden Patrick Covello. The Honor Guard presented colors.
“We join together today to compassionately honor the 2,977 individuals who were killed,” Smiley said. “So let us remember the actions of our first responders to recall and rekindle the spirit of unity and compassion that was shown that day and everyday here at Mule Creek State Prison.”
Warden Covello said while it’s been well over 20 years since 9/11, it still “feels like yesterday.”
“You only have to mention that day and we instantly flashback to where we were,” he said. “I remember it clearly while working at Ironwood State Prison as a lieutenant. We had just started coming into work when the first tower was hit (and we were) starting morning chow. Right in the middle of chow, the second tower was hit. About 20 minutes later, we were instructed to lock down the whole institution.”
With nearly 3,000 deaths, Covello said it’s important to remember the victims came from over 90 countries.
“On Aug. 17, 2023, we unexpectedly lost our own first responder, Correctional Officer Marcus Winkfield. (He) was well-respected, well-liked and always willing to help others. During his 17 years of service, (he) always brought a smile to everyone around him and he will be missed,” Covello said.
Watch the video on Vimeo site.
Written by Don Chaddock, Inside CDCR editor
Based on the video by MCSP staff
SATF staff take part in California 9/11 Memorial in Clovis
Substance Abuse Treatment Facility (SATF) staff and leadership took part in a ceremony honoring those who lost their lives during the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks.
SATF participants in the California 9/11 Memorial Remembrance Ceremony included:
- Warden Bryan D. Phillips
- Chief Deputy Warden Raul Morales
- and Honor Guard.
First responders such as law enforcement and fire departments, along with the military, from across the Central Valley participated in the event.
The event honored 9/11 survivor Will Jimeno, a retired police detective with the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. Jimeno recounted being buried alive for 13 hours, relying on sheer will to survive. He said faith, hope, and love carried him through the ordeal as well as his recovery from massive injuries.
To learn more, visit the California 9/11 Memorial website.
Watch Will Jimeno describe his experience (YouTube).
RA McGee Correctional Training Center marks 9/11
The Richard A. McGee Correctional Training Center (CTC) in Galt assembled in front of the Fallen Correctional Officer Memorial with flags at half-staff to remember the 22nd anniversary of the 9/11 attacks.
Academy Class 6-23-A and CTC staff members heard a speech from Capt. Ben Sherrin. They then observed a moment of silence, followed by Taps played on the bagpipes by Sgt. William Stanton from San Quentin.
Submitted by Lt. Dana M. Boggs, Watch Commander
Read more tributes to staff and retirees who have passed away.