(BOP) - On Wednesday, May 8th, the Federal Bureau of Prisons paid tribute to the agency's 26 fallen heroes during a memorial service at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C. This year, USP Lewisburg Senior Officer Robert F. Miller, who was killed in the line of duty on October 12, 1987, was specifically honored.
The Bureau welcomed Attorney General William Barr as the guest speaker. He stated, 'It is fitting, during Correctional Workers Week, that we stop and remember the BOP employees who have lost their lives in the line of duty. Their examples remind us of the dangers BOP officers face every day-and the bravery with which they face it. BOP officers work every hour of every day without knowing what the next shift will bring. And yet, despite the challenges, BOP employees show consistent dedication. It is the same work for which Robert Miller gave his life 31 years ago: to ensure that dangerous criminals remain behind bars where they belong and where they cannot hurt innocent people in society. Thank you all for undertaking this difficult but noble work.'
Following the Attorney General's remarks, Acting Director Hugh Hurwitz addressed the audience, "In its 89-year history, the Bureau of Prisons has lost 26 staff members in the performance of their sworn duties. Each loss is felt keenly by Bureau staff not only at the time the loss occurs, but also as it echoes throughout the years, reminding us of the critical mission we carry out. I am inspired, every day, by the unwavering commitment to the highest standards of professionalism and public service that have defined the Bureau. As the Nation honors these heroes with this Memorial, let us give meaning to our commitment to do everything we can to keep our staff safe as we carry out our mission to protect the American public."
A video highlighting the service will be posted when it becomes available.