CDCR, CCHCS mark Veterans Day across state

Across the state, CDCR and CCHCS staff took part in parades and community events while the incarcerated also honored Veterans Day.

Kern Valley State Prison holds Veterans Day Walk/Run

Every year, Kern Valley State Prison (KVSP) staff gather to honor veterans.

This year, staff congregated at the flagpole in front of the Administration Building at 8 a.m. The Honor Guard presented the colors while acting Warden Horn welcomed the crowd.

Active-duty Army Chaplain Ron Krantz offered a prayer for active service members and staff at KVSP.

To demonstrate their commitment to veterans, KVSP staff participated in a run/walk around the perimeter of the prison.

They walked or ran approximately two miles in formation, chanting cadence during their run.

Afterward, the KVSP Employees Association offered two cakes: one for the Marine Corps birthday and the other for staff to share in honor of Veterans Day.

A presentation of the cake cutting ceremony was led by a Marine Corps veteran and other KVSP veterans.

Submitted by Lt. J. Hernandez

San Quentin hosts Veterans Day ceremony

San Quentin Rehabilitation Center hosted a Veterans Day ceremony Nov. 11. Organized by the San Quentin Veterans Group, the event was held in the prison chapel.

Incarcerated veterans reflected on their military service, honoring their fallen brothers and sisters, while connecting through their shared experiences.

The event highlighted the importance of supporting veterans, regardless of their current circumstances.

Following the presentation of colors, there were speeches from veterans and invited guests.

The veterans were recognized for their service to the U.S. military, with many sharing personal stories of their time in uniform.

One of the highlights of the event was the music. The veterans were honored with a performance of military anthems, each one resonating deeply with veterans standing proudly for their branch.

“I witnessed many incarcerated veterans tearing up,” said a staff member. “The music acts were also outstanding.”

Incarcerated bands included SQ Blues, Rick and Cal, Mark Kinney, the famous 115s and more.

Capping off the event was a screening of the film “Heart Break Ridge,” where the California Model Resource Team served 250 bags of popcorn.

“It feels good to be seen, to be recognized,” said one veteran. “A lot of us get forgotten, but today, we get to remember why we served and honor those who didn’t come back.”

The San Quentin celebration was a tribute to military service as well as a recognition of the ongoing battles veterans face.

“The event was a clear reminder that we, as prison staff and members of the community, must not forget these incarcerated veterans,” said a staff member. “They are part of a broader group of people who have given much to this country. It is our responsibility to help them heal and reintegrate into society.”

Submitted by Lt. G. Berry

California Health Care Facility hosts second Veterans Banquet

California Health Care Facility (CHCF) in Stockton hosted its second Veterans Banquet to honor and express gratitude for the service of its incarcerated veterans. CHCF administration, participants from CHCF Veterans group, and outside guests, gathered for a celebration focused on recognition and appreciation.

The banquet featured a catered barbecue meal provided by a local business, allowing the veterans to enjoy a special dining experience while celebrating their service. The event underscored the importance of community support and acknowledgment for veterans, even within the unique setting of CHCF. This event helps foster a sense of respect and gratitude among attendees.

Submitted by Lt. M. Orozco

Walk for Veterans at California Institution for Men

The California Institution for Men (CIM) in Chino hosted a Walk for Veterans for the entire institution. The walk had the same start time on all facilities. The event showed gratitude to those who served our country. Custody staff were authorized to wear a military branch hat and authorized lapel pins. Non-custody staff were allowed to wear a military branch hat and/or t-shirt to show support. Staff and the incarcerated population donated to support Working Dogs for Warriors (learn more on their website).

Submitted by Lt. I. Vera

CDCR Honor Guard teams walk in Delano Veterans Day Parade

The combined CDCR Honor Guard teams from Wasco State Prison, North Kern State Prison, and Kern Valley State Prison participated in the City of Delano Annual Veterans Day Parade. The event pays tribute to veterans from the Delano area who have served our nation and state honorably in the armed services.

This year, Benny Alcala Jr., who was also a Navy veteran, was posthumously honored as this year’s parade grand marshal. Alcala was a correctional counselor III at Wasco State Prison-Reception Center when he lost his life in a tragic act of violence in August of 2022 in Bakersfield. There to receive the honor was his widow, Valerie Alcala, along with his mother Joanne Alcala and his eldest son Anthony.

Story submitted by Lt. J. Farley

Corcoran honors veterans

California State Prison, Corcoran, held an event to recognize veteran staff Nov. 8. After an opening ceremony presented by the Honor Guard, Correctional Capt. A. Peterson, an Army veteran, spoke to those in attendance. The event was ended with lunch, provided to all in attendance, and a small token for the staff veterans.

Submitted by Jennifer Thong, acting staff services analyst
Division of Adult Institutions

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