By Sarah Sinning
NASHVILLE, Tenn. — A correctional officer with the Tennessee Department of Corrections has been recognized as a Hometown Hero, Fox 17 reports.
Sgt. Veronica Hunter was nominated for the award by group of inmates at the Debra K. Johnson Rehabilitation Center in Nashville, who commended her for the positive impact she’s had on their lives.
“Sgt. Hunter is more than just an officer who is here to protect, maintain control, order and correction,” the women wrote. “She also helps us to see our true potential.”
Award sponser Michael Ponce echoed their praise as he presented Hunter with her $1,000 prize. “Reading some of the stories that several of the residents here told us [is] just amazing. It really shows you’ve made a difference in people’s lives and been a guiding light for people who maybe didn’t always have that and that’s something really special.”