Honoring the Unseen Guardians: The History and Significance of Correctional Officers Week
Why is it so important to celebrate National Correctional Officers Week?
Each May, during the first full week of the month, the nation comes together to recognize a group of public servants who too often go unseen and unacknowledged—correctional officers. Known officially as National Correctional Officers and Employees Week, this observance was established in 1984 by President Ronald Reagan, who recognized the critical, demanding, and often dangerous work performed by correctional professionals in maintaining public safety.
On May 5, 1984, President Reagan issued Proclamation 5187, declaring the first National Correctional Officers Week. His proclamation acknowledged that while these professionals are an essential part of the criminal justice system, their work frequently goes unnoticed by the public. Reagan praised correctional officers for their “courage, dedication, and professionalism,” emphasizing the importance of honoring their service to the nation.
“The important work of correctional officers often does not receive the recognition from the public it deserves. It is appropriate that we honor the many contributions and accomplishments of these men and women who are a vital part of the law enforcement community.”
President Ronald Reagan, Proclamation 5187
Correctional officers and employees are responsible for maintaining safety and order within jails, prisons, and detention centers across the country. They manage high-risk, high-stress environments and perform duties that go far beyond security. Correctional professionals often serve as mentors, counselors, and frontline defenders of human rights. They navigate daily threats and unpredictable challenges while upholding standards of justice, accountability, and rehabilitation.
Despite the essential nature of their role, correctional officers have historically received less recognition than other law enforcement counterparts. The creation of Correctional Officers Week helped change that narrative—offering an opportunity each year to thank those who serve behind the walls and fences of correctional institutions.
Today, agencies across the country celebrate this week with recognition events, awards, and educational efforts to raise awareness about the profession. More importantly, it’s a time for leaders, policymakers, and communities to renew their commitment to supporting correctional staff through better training, safer working conditions, and the mental health resources they deserve.
In recent years, the need for appreciation has grown even more urgent. With staffing shortages, rising safety concerns, and the evolving demands placed on facilities, correctional professionals face unprecedented pressure. And yet, they continue to show up every day—resilient, dedicated, and committed to protecting both the public and those in their custody.
Correctional Officers Week serves as both a celebration and a reminder. It honors those who serve in silence and strength, and it calls upon all of us to recognize their contributions not just for one week, but year-round.
At the National Institute for Jail Operations (NIJO), we believe it’s vital to do more than just recognize National Correctional Officers Week — we believe in showing our appreciation firsthand. For the past three years, and now in our fourth consecutive year, our team has traveled across the country on a nationwide jail tour, visiting as many as 100 facilities during the week. At each stop, we personally deliver a special plaque or framed certificate to honor the incredible dedication and service of correctional officers.
In addition to these in-person visits, we proudly showcase these heroes on our social media platforms, sharing photos and moments from the tour to celebrate their hard work and bring greater public recognition to their critical role. It’s a small way to give back to those who give so much every single day, and we are honored to continue this tradition year after year.
As we observe Correctional Officers Week this May, let us take time to thank these brave professionals for their service, reflect on the challenges they face, and advocate for the respect, resources, and recognition they have long deserved. And for some of you, we’ll see you soon on NIJO’s 2025 Jail Tour!
You may also be interested in “Beyond the Walls: Reaffirming Our Commitment to Corrections Professionals“
