Correctional Employees Week

WHEREAS, correctional employees work to provide a safe, secure and humane environment for both staff and offenders by prioritizing safety, while carrying out the mandates of the legislature and judiciary; and

WHEREAS, a career in corrections is one of the most challenging and noble professions one can pursue; and

WHEREAS, crucial to our criminal justice system and Alabamians’ inherent right to be protected from those who violate our laws is the custody and supervision of convicted felons; and

WHEREAS, correctional staff do far more than just ensure the security of our jails and prisons and those confined therein; and

WHEREAS, the State of Alabama Department of Corrections, and county and city correctional employees serve admirably in the field and in facilities across the state as correctional officers, health care professionals, teachers, chaplains, counselors, support staff, wardens, supervisors and community corrections officials, and they are among the most dedicated public servants in the state; and

WHEREAS, these employees work cooperatively every day with religious and community organizations, local governments and inmates’ families to facilitate the successful transition back into society of the inmates released each year from the department’s custody, enhancing their ability to function as productive citizens; and

WHEREAS, the Department of Corrections recognizes correctional employees’ worth and that correctional employees are its most valuable asset and the department understands the need for their development by providing career advancement opportunities; and

WHEREAS, in light of the significant, daily dangers faced by these brave employees while serving the state, and for the professional manner in which they perform their duties, it is fitting that we join in remembering and commending all correctional employees for their perilous and challenging work and show them the appreciation of our citizens:

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Robert Bentley, Governor of Alabama, do hereby proclaim May 4 through 10, 2014, as

Correctional Employees Week

in the state of Alabama.