A special event saluting veterans was held for the incarcerated at Central California Women’s Facility (CCWF) in Chowchilla.
“Today we are at CCWF, honoring our veterans for Veterans Day. This is the first time to this magnitude we’ve had our veterans come in. This is the first time they’ve been able to bless the population with food,” said Rose Mary Miller, an incarcerated person. “(It’s also the first time they’re offering) these types of endurance games.”
Desiree James, an incarcerated CCWF military veteran, explained some of the activities.
“We have a lot of what you would see us do in the military (such as) endurance, tire flips, strength training,” James said.

Guest speakers explained what it’s like to serve their country in active-duty service and how they continue serving their community while incarcerated.
Brenda Bowers, another incarcerated person, said she hopes people can learn more about incarcerated veterans and the challenges they face.
“I would like the population to take away a new appreciation for our veterans (who) are here incarcerated and the struggle that they have to go through,” she said. “And like, their mindset.”
Watch the video:
Video by Chris Medina, Director (specialist), TV Communications Center
Office of Public and Employee Communications
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