(BOP) - On Tuesday, May 6, in a solemn wreath laying ceremony at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C., Attorney General Eric H. Holder, Jr., and Bureau of Prisons (BOP) Director Charles E. Samuels, Jr., remembered the service, dedication and sacrifice of the 25 men and women who lost their lives in the line of duty over the agency’s 80 year history.
The Attorney General spoke of the integrity and professionalism that is the hallmark of BOP staff. Director Samuels said “Everyday when staff walk through the gates of our prisons around the country, they put the safety of the American people above their own. These dedicated public servants are committed to the highest standards of professionalism. Their courage and bravery, often unrecognized outside the prison walls, is essential in keeping our communities safe and secure.”
This year, the ceremony specifically honored Senior Officer Eric Williams, who was murdered by a federal prisoner on February 25, 2013, at the United States Penitentiary Canaan, Pennsylvania. Officer Williams’ name was added to the wall of the memorial this year alongside more than 20,000 other law enforcement officers .
The Honor Guards from Canaan Penitentiary and the BOP’s Central Office performed ceremonial honors.
This ceremony is held each year during Correctional Worker’s Week, recognizing the contributions, accomplishments and sacrifices of the more than 38,000 employees of the Bureau of Prisons.