(BOP) On Tuesday, May 5, 2026, the Federal Bureau of Prisons (Bureau) held its annual Correctional Workers’ Week Memorial Service honoring the Bureau’s twenty-seven fallen heroes who made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. The ceremony took place at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C.
This year’s service specifically honored Supervisory Correctional Systems Specialist Marc Fischer of USP Atwater, who passed away shortly after exposure to a narcotics-laced letter sent to the institution. A respected Bureau employee since 2001 and a U.S. Coast Guard veteran, Specialist Fischer was known as a dedicated leader and mentor and is survived by his wife, son, and daughter. In recognition of his service and sacrifice, his name has been added to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial, with location details forthcoming.
Director William K. Marshall III delivered the event’s commemoration and formally honored Supervisory Correctional Systems Specialist Fischer upon his induction into the distinguished ranks of the Bureau’s fallen heroes. He stated, “Marc Fischer embodied the quiet courage that defines so many who serve in our institutions. He was a steady leader, a trusted colleague, and a man deeply committed to doing the job the right way.” He continued, “Marc’s dedication, his service, and the example he set for others will remain part of the Bureau’s history and part of the story told along these memorial walls.”
Reflecting on this year’s theme, One Mission, Many Heroes, Director Marshall added, “Our fallen heroes came from different backgrounds and served in different roles, yet they were united by one mission: to protect the public by upholding safety, security, and justice inside our institutions. Heroism in corrections takes many forms, and every role in this agency carries weight, responsibility, and meaning.”
The Bureau welcomed Assistant Attorney General (AAG) Colin M. McDonald as the guest speaker. In his remarks, he emphasized the profound sacrifice made by the Bureau’s fallen, stating, “These individuals made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty, and we will never forget them.” He also reflected on the legacy of Supervisory Correctional Systems Specialist Marc Fischer, noting that “Marc was a highly respected leader among this community, and his legacy will live on through those he inspired with his dedication and service.” AAG McDonald went on to recognize the dedication of all Bureau staff, stating, “The 35,000 men and women of BOP provide the vigilance and professionalism that makes our country safer.” He concluded by reaffirming the Department’s support for the Bureau’s workforce, adding, “On behalf of the Department of Justice, I want to reaffirm our commitment to your safety and our support for your workforce.”
Deputy Director Joshua J. Smith served as Master of Ceremonies. Chaplain Dr. Zubair Yousif offered the invocation and benediction, and CPD Assistant Director Shane Salem presented the In Memoriam. The ceremony featured a moving selection of music, including the National Anthem performed by Rhea Walker (DOJ), Taps played by retired U.S. Army bugler Gene Russell, and reflection and memorial pieces performed on the bagpipes by DEA Special Agent Kevin Donnelly. The FCI Cumberland Honor Guard posted and retired the colors.
A large contingent of Central Office staff, Bureau leadership, and invited guests attended in solemn remembrance.
The annual memorial service stands as a central tradition of Correctional Workers’ Week, offering a moment to remember those who gave their lives in service to the Nation and to reaffirm the Bureau’s commitment to its mission and values. As the Bureau continues to honor its fallen, it also recognizes the dedication, professionalism, and courage of all correctional workers who serve behind the fence each day.
Bureau’s 27 Fallen Heroes
Joseph B. Waldrupe (Correctional Officer) • USP Leavenworth (KS) • November 10, 1901
Andrew F. Turner (Correctional Officer) • USP Leavenworth (KS) • March 26, 1916
Edgar A. Barr (Correctional Officer) • USP Leavenworth (KS) • March 19, 1917
James R. Brock (Deputy Warden) • USP Atlanta (GA) • December 27, 1917
Andrew H. Leonard (Captain) • USP Leavenworth (KS) • November 14, 1922
Robert G. Warnke (Laundry Foreman) • USP Leavenworth (KS) • June 20, 1929
Royal C. Cline (Correctional Officer) • USP Alcatraz (CA) • May 23, 1938
Harold P. Stites (Senior Officer) • USP Alcatraz (CA) • May 2, 1946
William A. Miller (Correctional Officer) • USP Alcatraz (CA) • May 3, 1946
William W. Latimer (Correctional Officer) • National Training School (WDC) • October 15, 1960
Vern M. Jarvis (Senior Officer) • USP Marion (IL) • January 26, 1969
Wayne L. Selle (Senior Officer) • USP Leavenworth (KS) • July 31, 1973
John W. Johnson (Correctional Officer) • USP Leavenworth (KS) • September 29, 1974
Donald F. Reis (Senior Officer Specialist) • FCI El Reno (OK) • February 28, 1975
Janice R. Hylen (Contract Dietitian) • USP Atlanta (GA) • November 21, 1979
Gregory J. Gunter (Maintenance Mechanic General Foreman) • FCI Petersburg (VA) • December 25, 1982
Gary L. Rowe (Senior Officer) • MCC San Diego (CA) • February 7, 1983
Merle E. Clutts (Senior Officer Specialist) • USP Marion (IL) • October 22, 1983
Robert L. Hoffmann (Senior Officer Specialist) • USP Marion (IL) • October 22, 1983
Boyd H. Spikerman (Correctional Officer) • FCI Oxford (WI) • January 29, 1984
Robert F. Miller (Senior Officer) • USP Lewisburg (PA) • October 12, 1987
D’Antonio A. Washington (Correctional Officer) • USP Atlanta (GA) • December 22, 1994
Scott J. Williams (Senior Officer Specialist) • USP Lompoc (CA) • April 3, 1997
Jose V. Rivera (Correctional Officer) • USP Atwater (CA) • June 20, 2008
Eric J. Williams (Senior Correctional Officer) • USP Canaan (PA) • February 25, 2013
Osvaldo O. Albarati (Supervisory Correctional Officer) • MDC Guaynabo (PR) • February 26, 2013
Marc Fischer (Supervisory Correctional Systems Specialist) • USP Atwater (CA) • August 9, 2024
A video highlighting the service will be posted when it becomes available.