Courageous for Our Country: Celebrating Veterans’ Day

As Veterans’ Day (Nov. 11) approaches, we can commemorate it by reflecting and paying tribute to those who serve - and have served - our country. Are you a veteran or an active duty military serviceperson? Do you have a loved one who has served in the military? What does Veterans’ Day mean to you? Read what President and CEO Damon Hininger has to say to employees about Veteran's Day, in the CCA Voices section.

Also, view more Veteran's Day thoughts from CCA employees in our most recent Voices entries. Read More

Please share your stories, comments and appreciation by sounding out in the commenting box at bottom, left.

Sound Out

Kathy Miller at Facility Support Center:

This Veterans Days will be very special, Jake (Ehrlich) our son-in-law, came home from Afghanistan last Tuesday (Oct. 27th) for good. Our prayers have been answered, and God has brought him home safely. He has decided that he will not re-enlist and will discharge in January, a very bittersweet decision. It has been especially hard on him with the medical issues our youngest granddaughter has had, and with him so far away, he felt it was time, but was a very difficult decision, due to leaving his fellow soldiers in the war zone area. To quote Jake, "Finally, I'm going home for good and walking home at that!" Rest in Peace, all those who sacrificed everything!

Jeff Conway at Marion County Jail II:

As a veteran and the father of two sons serving in the military, Veterans' Day is very special to me. I appreciate the company I work for taking time to recognize this important day. Unfortunately Veterans' Day this year will bring another deployment for my oldest son, this time to Afghanistan. I appreciate all the support and prayers we have received from coworkers. Please take a minute to recognize those who have served, but more importantly for those who are currently defending us.

Randy Kinnett at Marion County Jail II:

To all my Brothers and Sisters still fighting, both at home and abroad........... God Speed.

Semper Fidelis

Delando Miles at Wilkinson County Correctional Facility:

As a veteran of both OIF I and OIF II, I think that this is a very special day for those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. This is the time that we should pay a great tribute to those who paid the ultimate price for our freedom. For those who have served and including myself; (Thanks)

Deb Schumann at FSC:

As a former Navy enlistee, I will always hold Veterans Day as special.
We should all take a moment to remember those who have sacrificed their lives and those protecting freedom now.

Pam Horne at Winn Correctional Center:

My nephew Wess served in Kabul immediately following the birth of his FIRST child. He left when the baby was 2 months old to serve our country and freedom and my heart broke for him, his wife and child and my brother and sister n law. The sacrifice my nephew made to be away like that was awful for us, but it has given me a whole new outlook on life, my freedom and the sacrifices of so many countless others. The star bangled banner used to be a song they played before the ballgame...now I feel every word with the deepest gratitude and love for this great country. My nephew will be HOME for good in Jan., sacrificing yet again, the holidays with us. My nephew, is without a doubt my hero.

Louise Grant at FSC:

My 14-year-old daughter and I feed and clothe Nashville homeless people weekly, and we've found that many of them are veterans. My daughter wrote a paper for school about one particular homeless vet we've befriended, and she commented in the paper that the right time to honor the military is all the time, on any occasion. She's right, and I'm especially proud to honor today the 10% of our workforce who are military personnel. Salute!

Shelley Koski at Prairie Correctional Facility:

I am thankful every day -- for what I have and for those who gave all they had. My father was in Korea, my son's father in the Gulf. And many coworkers have either gone abroad or are presently there. Friends, family, they are all the same. I'm grateful to them and to their families for supporting them! THANK YOU!!

Brad Turner at LAC:

Thank you, veterans. I pray for all our troops daily.
Brad Turner, Colonel, USAR, Training Manager, LAC

Bobbi Jo Roscoe-Bryan at Prairie Correctional Facility:

I am honored to say that I am a military wife. My husband is currently serving his 2nd Tour in Iraq. I am GRATEFUL for him and every soldier for serving our country. Our facility currently has 8 staff members who are serving our country in Iraq and WE ARE VERY PROUD OF THEM AND THANKFUL TO THEM FOR THEIR SERVICE. Please remember all of the soldiers who are currently serving our country, their families, and all the soldiers and their families who have paid the ultimate price for our country. THANK YOU!

Gary Lesperance at Diamondback:

As I am a 17 1/2 year veteran of the U.S. Army who served in 2 combat tours. I think it is great that CCA recognizes the veterans that served their country. Here at Diamondback we have recieved little knick nacks and other items. But the greatest reward that I have got from other employee's is when they just say "Thank You". A saying that I have brought from the military to Law Enforcement and Corrections is " The more you sweat in peace, The less you bleed in war". I know what it's like to be in combat, but my wife showed me what it is like when a family member is there. My stepson served in Iraq and was wounded twice. God Bless the warriors and there families.

K. Danielle Edwards at FSC:

All too often, when we hear about or speak of military servicepersons, we're mired in political debates or personal opinions about war and conflict. Not frequently enough do we think of the men and women who, no matter what side of the aisle we happen to be on, are doing something most of us could not and would not for the sake of ideals and hopes greater than themselves. Veteran's Day should be a moment to consider that.

John Pinner at Whiteville Correctional Facility:

This Veterans Day i would like to thank all the people who remember the Vets on this most deserved holiday. As a veteran it feels good that this company and the people that work in it still remember why our men and women are still there. As another deployment nears for some of the employees at our facility, I wish them and their families the best. I'll pray everyday for you.

MARICELA REYES at LA PALMA:

I'M VERY THANKFUL AND PROUD OF ALL THE PEOPLE WHO HAVE SERVED OUR COUNTRY. I'M ESPECIALLY PROUD OF MY SISTER REYNA REYES WHO IS CURRENTLY ACTIVE IN THE NAVY. ALTHOUGH IT BRINGS GREAT SADNESS THAT SHE WILL BE DEPLOYING OUT TO SEA JANUARY 2010. MAY GOD BLESS YOU ALL, YOU ARE IN MY THOUGHTS AND PRAYERS ALWAYS

LYNN CARPENTER at FSC:

My father was one of the first soldiers to enter Auschwitz in WWII. I saw throughout the rest of his life how that scene affected him. The sacrifices our Veterans have made are for a lifetime. They don't just go away when they come home. We need to love them all year long. Thanks to all of you that have sacrificed and know that we are a grateful nation.

Ms.Kliesen at Red Rock Correctional Facility:

I would like to send a thank you out to all the veterans but a special one to all those that work for this company and come back to an intense job after finishing such tough work in the war on Terror! THANKS! Special thank you to those still over there fighting the fight. Our prayers are with you!!!

GOD BLESS AMERICA!

Debbie Nevarez at Saguaro Correctional Facility:

To all my fellow veterans-"We Never Forget". My service time was more Vietnam and americans have become more thoughful now than then. My son served in Iraq and came home safely. My father was in WWII and survived a bombing of the ship he was on. No matter when you served you are heroes. God Bless all the active duty men and women and all the military veterans.

J E Parrilla-Raya, Investigator at Tallahatchie County Correctional Facility:

As a retired 21yrs. USMC/USCG (Vietnam,Grenada, Panama) veteran let me congratulate all the brothers and sisters who had served and are serving this great nation!
To my fellow "Devil Dogs", celebrate the aniversary of our beloved Corp the 10th, and Veterans Day the 11th.
SEMPER FI
To my fellow Coasties, "Following Seas" and...."SEMPER PARATUS

Jane W. Williams at McRae C.F.:

I hold a very special place in my heart for veterans from all branches of the service. Having worked with and retired from the Department of Veterans Affairs, I have seen what the perils of war can do to a person both physically and mentally. I had the privilege and honor to work with a physician who was a pioneer in identifying and diagnosing the symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, a malady that many veterans returning from the Vietnam War, Iraq and now Afghanistan exhibit.

Let us not forgot the many, many sacrifices these brave men and women have made to this country and for our personal freedom. Say a prayer each day our veterans will return home safe and soon.

Vicky Figueroa at Metro:

For all who have served and currently serve to protect this GREAT COUNTRY, I say "Thank you"
Vicky Figueroa 1LT USAR, 21 year veteran of Armed Forces and OIF veteran

Vicki Bosley at Crowley County Correctional Facility:

As the mother of a son who served on OIF I and OIF II, I am grateful for what he and his brothers and sisters in arms have done for our country. Sadly, I lost my son in OIF II south of Baghdad by an IED while he was clearing and area on foot with two of his comrades (all three were lost). He was a Bradley Commander and loved what he did and loved his country unconditionally. I am proud of our sons and daughters that keep fighting for our freedom. So, whenever you see a veteran or a soldier in uniform, thank them for what they have done and are still doing. Also remember those that gave the ultimate sacrifice. You are missed and loved Justin!

Lee Latham at Bradshaw State Jail:

Many of us Veterans have friends still fighting. While America celebrates it's Veterans, It's Veterans will be remembering the ones who are no longer with us and praying for those yet to come home. I have a brother and several close friends still serving. I pray for their safety daily.

We celebrate the heroes among us who lived through unimaginable horror and consider ourselves blessed to have served beside them. Blessed that they served and made this country safe.

Never Forget
Never Fail
Never Surrender
Never Leave Anyone Behind

Greg Abrams at South Central:

As a 20 year USAF Vietnam and Desert Storm veteran, I truely appreciate the contrast of today's public gratitude. One of my fondest memories is that of my heart surgeon personally and genuinely thanking me for my service to our country--while then doing his part to save my life. Honor the day. Thank a Veteran. It really matters.

Michelle Hopson at Bartlett State Jail:

Veterans Day has always been special to me, my father served in the Army and I served in the Marine Corps. Its important that we support our troops in and out of War Time. Thank you is always something soldiers love to hear. Siempre Fidelis is a motto the Marines use meaning "Always Faithful" and that is a motto I use with CCA. I am proud to work for a Company that recognizes the U.S. Armed Forces and all that the men and women who have served and who are currently serving have sacrificed. Reading through the comments others have made from different facilities brings a warmth through my heart knowing that no matter what no one forgets the greatness of a soldiers worth.

JUAN JOSE MORENO at WILLACY STATE JAIL:

THIS VETERANS DAY, I WILL NOT FORGET; TO ALL THOSE WHO HAVE FOUGHT AND GIVEN THEIR LIVES IN THE PAST & PRESENT IN DEFENDING OUR GREAT COUNTRY OF OURS. AS A 20 YEAR VETERAN,I'M SO PROUD OF OUR MILITARY PERSONNEL. I WILL PRAY FOR OUR TROOPS FOREIGN AND DOMISTIC WHO WE LOVE SO DEARLY. GO ARMY HOOAHH!

Sandra Elliott at Leavenworth Detention Center:

I am an Army Veteran (MP Corps), my brother has 23 years in the Army, my brother in law and 2 of my nephews are veterans, with both of my nephews returning from Iraq and Afghanistan within the last year...here in Leavenworth we are very heavy on veterans in our CCA workforce, and you couldn't ask for a better bunch of people to work with! I am very proud of where me and my family come from, and very proud to work for a company that supports our military in the way CCA does...May God bless all of our soldiers past and present and may GOD BLESS THE USA!!!!

Brian Gaffield at Metro Davidson Detention:

Having served in the military and having been deployed and serving in Desert Storm I appreciate the efforts CCA makes to honor all their Veterans. We at Metro currently have two deployed and one more is set to deploy soon. Thanks to all current and past veterans for your service to our great country.

Happy Birthday to all the Leathernecks out there.

SEMPER FIDELIS

Jackie Smith at CTF Washington, D.C.:

To All the troops serving and has served our country to protect us, I appreciate all you do to keeps us safe, and I keep you in my prayers every day and night.

Libby Ayers at Facility Support Center:

My grandpa was a proud WWII veteran when was still with us. During his years of service, he fought with the first wave of the Allied Invasion on Omaha Beach and was part of the American liberation of Dachau concentration camp in April 1945. Needless to say, he was full of stories. I'm so proud of him and all our veterans and troops still fighting today.

david howington at north ga det. center:

veterans day is important to me because of all our heros that cannot celebate, i honor them; as a veteran i feel honored not only to my country but to my fellow citizens in recognizing this special day; live on U.S.A.

Jose Rosario at Crowley County Correctional Facility:

As a Veteran who served in Iraq, I always look forward to Veterans' Day. It's because of veterans from previous wars such as the Korean War, WWII and on that I enlisted in the Army in 2001. I will always have respect for veterans no matter who they are or what they've done. They deserve it.

Jeff Mazowieski at Metro-Davidson:

To those who have served, to those who are currently serving and especially to those that have given the ultimate sacrafice I Thank-You and salute you for your service to our great country. Once you have been in a far away place you quickly appreciate how good you have it here in the good old USA. USAF/Ret. 24 years of service

Marilyn T. Price at Stewart Detention Center:

Many blessings to all those who serve this wonderful country. Your courage and dedication is admirable. I respect your decision to serve, and welcome your return to your families. Be safe and alert.

Linda Sevison at Idaho Correctional Center:

I am greatly moved by the dedication and commitment of those individuals who serve their country around the world and locally. My father was in the Army stationed in Korea for 2 years during the Korean War, and he never talked about his experience. My grandmother told me that they learned bits and pieces the first few months he was home. He watched his buddies get blown apart by some type of ordinance. For the first time in his life, he had to take another life. I cannot imagine what it must be like. I've never held a gun, and cannot imagine what it would be like to point it at another human being and take their life. It takes a special person to serve in the military. God bless 'em all!

Brenda Doss at Adams County Correctional Center:

Veterans Day is a special day to honor all the soldiers that has served this country. I am honored t be a military wife. My husband (Greg) is curently serving his second tour in Iraq. Let's continue to pray for the soldiers and their families. And most of all PEACE.

Jeremaine Smith at Correctional Treatment Facility:

Being a prior service member ( U.S.A.F.) , Veterans Day is one holiday that I hold near and dear to my heart. Alot of blood, sweat, and tears have been contributed from myself and my brothers in arms to ensure that all americans can enjoy a unique way of life that most countries do not have the ability to do so. I salute all armed forces veterans and the current soldiers representing our flag.

David Kitchen at Cimarron Correctional Facility:

Very greatful to all our men and women who have sacrificed unselfishly for my religious freedom. Oh so proud of my son, Aaron, who served in Iraq for 13 months.

Orissa Coon at Northfork Correctional Facility :

My cousin Derrick just got back from iraq about a year ago, and let me tell you I have never been more proud and scared at the same time. The day they arrived at thier homecoming I was so excited and when the buses came into view it was a very sureal moment. Just being there and seeing the face's of the men and women and knowing what they sacrificed for us and the time they spent away from thier families "Thank you" is no where near what we owe, but it is all I have to give. From the bottom of my heart Thank you and God bless.

Charles Jones at Northfork Correctional Facility:

As a Vietnam Disabled Veteran serving in the US Air force, I always found it a great honor to serve my country, and state as a retired State Trooper, and now working on 19 years in my second career which is mental health. I really enjoy working at Northfork as the Mental Health Coordinator, and so much appreciate CCA, and the wonderful things they say, and do for our veterans.

Jane Svalstad at Crossroads Correctional Center:

My deepest thanks to all veterans.
They are never paid enough for their sacrifice.
Thanks also goes to the families of these brave people.

Meagan Easley at North Fork :

My baby sister Minette is in Iraq stationed at Balad and has been gone since May 09. She left her two small children (Maleri 3 and Dallas 2) at home, among other loved ones and friends. To do something that I can not even fathom, I greatly respect the fact that so many others have done the same. She is truly my hero, my sister, and my best friend. "Under one Big Sky, You and I"...To all that have taken the step to serve and contribute to our country and our freedom.... THANK YOU!

Shannon Saulter at SDCF:

Veterans Day holds more meaning to a lot of people in this country since 9/11 but for me I grew up knowing the meaning of what veterans have done for this great nation. As a child of a Marine I grew up with so much military pride I cant even explain. Now in the year 2009 every American and every person living in the USA should stop and think and on this Veterans Day say thank-You to all the men and women who have served,are serving and have died for us to be able to live in the greatest county in the world. To all my fellow employees who have served or have family that have I say THANK-YOU for all that you have done and sacrificed for myself and my family!!!

Veronica Caldwell-Boone at Facility Support Center:

Veterans Day has always been close and dear to my heart. Having a spouse who is a Marine, a father who was in the Army, and a dear friend's husband who is currently serving overseas in the Army brings it all home. The job that our military personnel does is not an easy one and I commend them on their decision to serve our nation. Everyday is Veterans Day in my mind because their service never ends. Whether they are fighting on the front line or serving in an administrative capacity, they all are doing a service. Thank you to our fallen and current military personnel. May God you and our nation!

Christopher Wesley at Stewart Detention Center:

As a veteran of the US ARMY, I am always appreciative of all veterans; May God continue to bless and keep all veterans safe and strong.My sincere prayers and thoughts are with you on Veteran Day and each day of the year.Veterans Day is a time to remember those who have served our Country with PRIDE AND Especially those whom lost their lives or were injured in the Line of Duty. FADO-Fight and Drive ON

Doug Caulfield at DC/CTF:

These are truly tough times all over the world and we are blessed to live in the greatest country in the world. All too often we tend to forget that we owe our freedom and autonomy to those who have served our country throughout its inception in 1776. Our veterans deserve all our thanks!

Jenna Slocum at FSC:

What an amazing ourpouring of support for our honored veterans! I'm proud to work for this fine company.

Jimmy Turner at FSC:

My respect and honor are deeply rooted from my childhood. As an Air Force "brat" waiting at the fence of a hanger on the Base. With tears in my eyes. My father would return each time he flew supplies into Vietnam. I didn't understand at the time, but when we arrived home. He would put another group of bullet fragments in a jar. Those bullets he had removed from the belly of his plane. Later in life my father told me that he flew supplies over, then bodies of our service men back. Now when I see families of our service men and women saying goodbye or awaiting their return. Those same emotions return as if I was standing at the fence, again. We need to honor all who sacrifice for us.

Hoyt Brill at Kit Carson Correctional Center:

As a veteran in the past and as a baseball fan in the present, the effect when I hear the Star Spangled Banner is a lump in my throat when I realize the sacrifice people and family have made for the good ole U.S.of A. I'm in awe of kids in the military today and the job they do for American feedom. When we doubled the size of the prison two years ago we named the new addition the "Luetters Building", named after one of our officers who sacrificed his life in Iraq for this country.

Jennifer Vasquez at Crowley County Correctional Facility:

Nothing I can do or say will ever be enough to thank our military men/women & veterans. They LIVE & BREATHE what they do & would ultimately sacrifice everything for our country. Because of my brother, I was introduced to that world & for the first time, felt & understood what pride & patriotism really is.
THANK YOU!!!!! to all our past, present & future military men/women.
And a special THANK YOU to those that gave the ultimate sacrifice.
--JVasquez, CCCF--
sister of:
SSG Justin L Vasquez
US Army
KIA 6/5/05 - Baghdad, Iraq

T Harrison at Metro:

I just want to say Thank you to all the men and women that have and are still fighting for my freedom. Because of you I can stand and have an opinion on anything. My fore fathers and you gave me that right. I will never take it for granted. I will say a prayer every night for God to bring you home safe. Thank You....Semper Fi

Michael Davis at Metro Detention:

As a veteran of 26 years ( Army) and having one son in the navy for 10 years, veterans Day is always and will always be a special day to me and all veterans because of the many times we threw ourselves in harms way. I just always remember that old soldiers never die they just fade away. ( Army retired Michael Davis.

Cindy McDaniel at Diamondback Correctional:

As retired Military and a veteran of Iraqi Freedom. I am a female and am one who celebrates Veterans Day whole heartedly. I also have two nephews in the military and one just back from Iraq. I know what we are fighting and seen it first hand. Veterans Day is honoring those who fought against terrorist and opprestion anywhere. I will be honoring them this veterans Day I hope you will join me.

Steven O'Meara at Northeast Ohio Correctional Center:

I am a veteran USN retired and proud of it and proud to have served and for those who have before I and the ones who still are. The sacrifices made are a reflection of the pride for our country and protecting it. Freedom is a price paid for by the sacrifices made by all brothers in arms the ultimate price paid by some is a reflection of there courage. I salute you

Floyd Jones at Mineral Wells Pre-Parole Transfer Facility:

As a veteran of the United States Army I appreciate CCA allowing veterans the opportunity to express their thoughts. May God be with every military man and woman in the armed forces and bring them all home safely. (303rd Army Security Agency)

Damon Hininger at FSC:

Thanks so much for the feedback and comments. I really appreciate it.

Elijah Light at Silverdale Correctional Facility:

As a veteran of the US Army, I am proud that our company takes time out to honor its vets. With less than 1% of Americans serving in our Armed Services, we need to thank them every day.

Bryan Purcell at Bartlett State Jail:

Veterans Day is a day when I take the time to remember my fallen friends. I wear their bracelets with pride and I make it a point to tell the people who ask that they died as heroes. I remember 2LT Matt Cutu for his sense of humor. He once super glued everything to my platoon sergeants desk. Coffee cup and all best prank ever. PFC Tim Hines I remember how mature he was for his age. 20 years old married 1 kid and another on the way. He made it all the way to Walter Reed and before God called him home. SGT Julia Atkins I miss you most of all. She was born with a heart of solid gold. We grew up in the platoon together. I was so proud when you when you earned your SGT stripes.

Russ Wichterman at LaPalma :

"For those that have fought for it, Freedom has a taste the protected will never know"

God Bless our past and present Men and Women who serve this Country.

Jesus P. Trevino at Willacy State Jail:

Veteran's Day is held with very high importance in my family. I served in the United States Marine Corps while not yet a citizen of this country. I, like all of those who have donned a uniform to serve in the military, was willing to give my life for the ideals that make this country what it is. Now, my nephew, Aaron Morales, is serving in Iraq. He is all but a stranger to his 9 month old daughter. But we know, that just as we are very proud and appreciative of his service, she, too, will one day realize the sacrifice that her daddy has made for her and for this country. I salute all veterans, they are those who willingly endured hardships that few others would.

Darla McAllister at FSC:

I am thankful each and every day for all those who serve in the military. As a "military brat" I am the daughter, sister and aunt (and friend!) to those who have and are currently serving. Veterans Day 2009 is very special as my son, Brendan, will be home prior to deployment to Afghanistan in December. He serves with the 173rd Airborne Brigade in Vicenza, Italy. THANK YOU to ALL who serve and the families who have (or who have lost) love ones who serve - you are always in my thoughts and prayers.

Darryl Ragsdale at San Diego Correctional Facility:

Militray life has always been in my family, my father, 4 uncles, ranging from korea, to vietnam. I served in the NAVY from 1979-1999 on various ships and shore stations. We have many fomer and active reserves here in san diego. I am eternally grateful for those who have gone before me and those who will follow. I believe in this great country and would enlist again if called. May GOD be with you all.

DeAndra Mack at FSC:

Thinking about Veterans' Day, I think of my dad who was a veteran, and others in my family who have served in the armed forces. I'm so proud to be a part of a company that chooses to honor the many men and women who give their all through their military service. Thank you for all you do.

Wilma S. Jenkins at Wheeler Correctional:

Today is Veteran's Day
While a lot of emphasis (deserved) is placed on the current vets; we don't need to forget all those who have fought in previous wars, some giving the ultimate sacrifice.
My father - William Hilery Sightler fought in WWII and lost both legs.
My brother - (Dr) William S. Sightler covered the home front in the Iraqi Freedom beginning.
My husband - Gary M. Jenkins fought in Vietnam, then after he came home he joined the Army National Guard and served in Panama, and Oman Desert Storm. He retired from the National Guard as a Captain.
My son-in-law - Kenneth Parker is currently serving in Afghanistan.
My prayers, and thanks, go out to all the vets and their families.

Melvin Shaw at HCCC:

I just wanted to take this opportunity to mention the debt we all owe to those who have had a part in making and keeping this nation what it is today, whether they be civilian or military. The recent incident at Ft. Hood is a reminder.

Louis Kates at DC CTF:

We live in the most privileged nation in the world, and freedom's price isn't free. It's paid by every woman and man serving, past and present. Father is Navy , Korean War era, uncles in Army WWII, and grandfather was doughboy, WWI. God bless them & the rest of our Vets. An older friend was survivor of the Bataan Death March. He was taken as POW by the Japanese, & almost lost his vision from copper poisoning acquired from working in their mines. He continued to serve our club as a handyman, painting, cleaning latrines, etc. He was softspoken, unassuming, and one of the biggest people I'll ever meet.

Tasha Crockett at Houston Processing Center:

"I'm An Army Wife"
In war, there are lives risked and lives taken
Men and women giving their best to defend what they love
They defend their country
Their honor
Their people
Some call them soldiers
Others call them heroes
Our veterans have risked their lives for us
They have lived through hell and fought with honor
Many have killed
And regret doing so
For every life, there is a soul
For every soul, there is a life
For those who have died, we show great appreciation and remembrance
For those who live, along with them live the horrific memories of battle
Some, memories of defeat
Some, memories of victory
Our veterans were more than soldiers
They were, and still are heroes

Bryan Martin at Eloy Detention Center:

As an Army veteran, I make it a point every Veteran's Day to get up and go outside so that I can fly the American Flag proudly. Each and every soldier, marine, airman, and sailor that has ever served has given me that right and that freedom to fly Old Glory proudly. I was also given the opportunity to put together a Veteran's Day Presentation for all of the staff at Eloy and it turned out great!!! Thank you brothers and sisters for your continued service and I am honored to have served this fine country!!!