Facilities Across the State Host Veterans Day Ceremonies

Commissioner: Timothy C. Ward

Director of Public Affairs: Joan Heath

Remembering and Recognizing our Veterans

FORSYTH, Ga. – In recognition of Veteran’s Day, the Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) hosted ceremonies throughout the state to honor and recognize our service men and women.  The ceremonies held for staff and offenders included keynote speeches from veterans, appreciation luncheons, reflecting time at the memorial wall and the playing of taps in honor of those “who gave all.” 

“We are extremely grateful to those who have served our country and for the sacrifices they have made,” said Commissioner Timothy C. Ward.  “Ceremonies likes these allow us to show a small token of our appreciation for our military veterans.”

Among the events held to recognize the more than 800 GDC staff members who are veterans was a ceremony and luncheon featuring a retired combat veteran as guest speaker.  The luncheon served as a fundraiser, with donations going to assist veterans through the State Charitable Contributions Campaign

An annual ceremony is held at Walker State Prison, recognizing veterans, including the more than 2,700 who are incarcerated. Attendees were able to reflect on the sacrifices that service men and woman endured for freedom by viewing a replica Vietnam Veteran Memorial Wall, which was tediously constructed by 202 offenders and includes all 58,300 names that appear on the original.

About the Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC)

The Georgia Department of Corrections (GDC) has one of the largest prison systems in the U.S. and is responsible for supervising nearly 52,000 state prisoners. It is the largest law enforcement agency in the state with approximately 10,500 employees. For more information on the GDC, call 478-992-5247 or visit http://www.gdc.ga.gov