Public Information Office:
 Bart Graves, Media Relations Administrator
1601 W. Jefferson
Phoenix, Arizona 85007
(602) 542-3133

 

 

FLAG DAY CELEBRATION

A number of Arizona Department of Corrections staff serves in the armed forces. Currently 70 employees are on active duty and another 125 are waiting to be deployed. Since January 2003, a weekly average of 110 ADC staff has been on military leave.

On Tuesday, June 14, ADC will honor its staff and their families who have been called to active duty since the war on terrorism began, in October of 2001. During a program celebrating Flag Day, ADC will pay tribute to the employees who are now serving their country and those who did serve and have returned. The Department will also acknowledge the families of employees who are currently on active duty and ADC employees who are on stand-by status and are waiting to be deployed.

Among those who will be recognized are six ADC employees who have earned special recognition by the military recently.

  • Correctional Officer II Josue Salas, ASPC-Yuma Purple Heart
  • Correctional Officer II Doyle Clark, ASPC-Yuma Purple Heart
  • Sergeant Tony Jackson, ASPC-Yuma Purple Heart
  • Correctional Officer II Gary Garside, ASPC-Florence Purple Heart
  • Correctional Officer II Jose Alatorre, ASPC-Lewis Purple Heart
  • Training Officer David Truax, ASPC-Yuma Bronze Star

The program, featuring presentations and remarks by ADC Director Dora Schriro, Major General David Rataczak and Arizona Senator Robert Blendu, will be held in the State Capitol Tower Lobby, 1700 West Washington Street in Phoenix at 11 a.m.

Speaking about the program, Director Schriro explained, “We are exceptionally proud of our staff that wear the uniform of the military and the Arizona Department of Corrections, and provide for our safety at home and abroad. Their sacrifices are many and contributions are considerable. Along with their families, we join in welcoming them home."

The Purple Heart is awarded to members of the U.S. armed forces who are wounded by an instrument of war in the hands of the enemy and posthumously to the next of kin in the name of those who are killed in action or die of wounds received in action. The Bronze Star is awarded to individuals who, while serving in any capacity with the Armed Forces of the United States in a combat theater, distinguish themselves by heroism, outstanding achievement, or by meritorious service not involving aerial flight.

The event will be held from 11 am – 3 pm, MEDIA AVAILABILITY WILL BEGIN AT 12 NOON.

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