Atlanta recognizes fallen officers, retirees, staff

Atlanta DOC Chief Patrick Labat helped commemorate National Correctional Officers and Employees Week. CONTRIBUTED

Atlanta DOC Chief Patrick Labat helped commemorate National Correctional Officers and Employees Week. CONTRIBUTED

The city of Atlanta Department of Corrections has begun a week-long series of events to commemorate National Correctional Officers and Employees Week. Each year, the first full week in May is recognized as National Correctional Officers, Nurses and Employees Week, paying tribute to the contributions of those who work in jails, prisons and community corrections across the country.

The DOC kicked off its celebration with a four-mile run/walk led by DOC Chief Patrick Labat, the DOC Command Staff, and VIPER Team on April 29 at the Atlanta BeltLine Eastside Trail entrance.

Other events planned for the week include a memorial prayer service in honor of fallen officers, a retirees’ luncheon, health fair, softball tournament, raffles, prizes, and cookout. The observance will culminate with the presentation of the 2017 Correctional Officer of the Year award and other employee awards presented by Chief Labat.