In 1984, President Ronald Reagan issued Proclamation 5187, establishing National Correctional Officers Week and recognizing correctional officers as “a vital component of the field of corrections.” He noted that their work often did not receive the public recognition it deserved.
More than four decades later, agencies across the country are continuing that tradition, honoring the correctional officers, deputies, detention staff and corrections employees who keep jails, prisons and detention facilities operating safely every day.
As National Correctional Officers Week is observed from May 3-9, 2026, departments and organizations are using social media to thank corrections staff for their professionalism, sacrifice and service.
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Butte County Sheriff’s Office
The Butte County Sheriff’s Office recognized its 88 correctional deputies, thanking them for the work they do inside the jail and in support of the agency’s correctional programs.
“The men and women who work in our jail, and support the many correctional programs we provide, work tirelessly each day to ensure safety, security and professionalism in all they do,” the agency stated.
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Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office
The Multnomah County Sheriff’s Office celebrated the week with help from a new four-legged visitor.
The agency shared a new partnership with DoveLewis PACTT Canine Therapy Teams, bringing therapy dogs into corrections facilities to support staff wellness. Arthur the Therapy Dog visited the Multnomah County Detention Center, where he offered what the agency described as much-needed cuddles for the team.
“To all our correctional staff: we appreciate you today and every day,” the sheriff’s office stated.
Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office
The Pinellas County Sheriff’s Office put the spotlight on detention deputies who work inside the Pinellas County Jail, noting that much of their work happens outside public view.
The agency highlighted the patience, composure and professionalism required to maintain order, care for those in custody and keep the facility secure shift after shift.
“Our detention deputies don’t get a lot of spotlight,” the agency stated. “This week, National Correctional Officers Week, we’re putting the spotlight on them.”
Pennsylvania Department of Corrections
The Pennsylvania Department of Corrections marked the start of Corrections Employees Week by recognizing employees across a wide range of roles, including security, education, maintenance, medical, food service, psychology, reentry, parole and community corrections.
The department noted that corrections employees often work long hours, manage high-stress environments and remain steady through complex challenges.
“Their commitment strengthens not only the justice system but also the communities they serve and the Commonwealth as a whole,” the department stated.
Virginia Department of Corrections
The Virginia Department of Corrections highlighted the officers serving in Virginia’s prisons, correctional centers and Community Corrections Alternative Programs. Gov. Abigail Spanberger proclaimed May 4-9, 2026, as Correctional Officers Week in Virginia, according to VADOC. (VADOC)
VADOC Director Joseph W. Walters said correctional officers make up more than half of the agency’s workforce and are central to its mission.
“They work diligently to keep our communities safe, while also supporting rehabilitation efforts that assist incarcerated individuals in their progress towards successful reentry,” Walters said.
LAPD Headquarters
LAPD Headquarters celebrated its Custody Services Division officers and personnel, thanking them for their hard work, commitment and dedication to the community.
“Happy National Correctional Officers Week,” the department stated.
One Voice United
One Voice United used the week to reflect on its National Medal of Honor event, recognizing corrections professionals from across the country for their service, leadership and commitment.
The organization said the ceremony was a reminder of the professionalism and humanity shown throughout corrections every day.
“Their stories matter. Their service matters. And the profession itself deserves to be elevated and respected,” One Voice United stated.
Douglas County Sheriff’s Office
The Douglas County Sheriff’s Office recognized the staff members serving in its Detentions Division, highlighting the professionalism and responsibility required to maintain a safe and secure environment inside the facility.
The agency thanked detention deputies, specialists, medical personnel and support staff for their around-the-clock work supporting the justice system.
“Their work reflects a deep sense of responsibility, professionalism, and respect, as they help maintain a safe and secure environment while treating every individual with dignity,” the sheriff’s office stated.
Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department
The Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department in Boston celebrated National Correctional Officers and Employees Appreciation Week with its annual staff BBQ cookout at the Suffolk County Jail.
The event brought together custody and non-custody staff from across the department, with superintendent office staff serving food while employees took time to relax and celebrate together.
“Thank you to our staff who show up day-in and day-out to support the function of the Suffolk County Sheriff’s Department,” the agency stated.
Laramie County Sheriff’s Office
The Laramie County Sheriff’s Office used National Correctional Officers and Employees Week to recognize the correctional staff serving inside its detention center.
The agency thanked corrections employees for the professionalism and commitment they bring to the job and acknowledged the role they play in supporting public safety.
“Your hard work does not go unnoticed,” the sheriff’s office stated. “We are grateful for your service not just today, but every day.”
St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office
The St. Johns County Sheriff’s Office recognized personnel serving across its Corrections Division during National Correctional Officers Week, highlighting staff assigned to booking, courthouse security and transportation, the Community Work Release Center and the county’s main detention unit.
The agency said corrections personnel are responsible for the care, custody and control of inmates housed at the St. Johns County Detention Center while maintaining a safe and secure environment in accordance with Florida jail standards and accreditation requirements.
“We appreciate all you do!” the agency stated.
The sheriff’s office also thanked several local businesses for supporting corrections personnel during the week, including Texas Roadhouse St. Augustine, Dunkin, Dutch Bros, Ford’s Garage St. Augustine and Aramark.
#TeamSJSO is recognizing the SJSO Corrections Division!
— St. Johns County Sheriff's Office (@TeamSJSO) May 5, 2026
SJSO Corrections Division personnel work assignments in Booking, Community Work Release Center & Work Squad, Courthouse Security & Transportation, and the Main Detention Unit. They provide care, custody, and control of all… pic.twitter.com/TFQpqqPkVk
Why this recognition matters
Correctional officers and corrections employees often serve behind the walls, outside the view of the public. Their work is essential to facility safety, community safety, inmate rehabilitation and the daily operation of the justice system.
National Correctional Officers Week offers agencies, leaders and communities a chance to pause and recognize that work.
As Reagan wrote in his 1984 proclamation, “It is appropriate that we honor the many contributions and accomplishments of these men and women who are a vital component of the field of corrections.”
