From May 4th through May 10th, 2025, Chattooga County will join the nation in observing National Correctional Officers and Employees Week, a time dedicated to recognizing the vital contributions of those working within the corrections system. This week-long tribute, established by President Ronald Reagan in 1984 and expanded by Congress in 1996 to encompass all correctional employees, aims to express gratitude and appreciation for their unwavering service and dedication. Here in Chattooga County, the dedicated men and women working at Hays State Prison in Trion are among those being honored for their commitment to maintaining safety and security within the facility and contributing to the broader criminal justice system. National Correctional Officers and Employees Week serves a crucial purpose: to publicly acknowledge the often-unseen work of corrections professionals, celebrate their contributions to society, and raise awareness about the importance and significance of the corrections profession as a whole. This year, communities across the country are encouraged to take time to thank these essential workers for their commitment and sacrifice.