PCF recognizes vets, plans Legion post

PUTNAMVILLE -- Preparing to introduce its own American Legion post this summer, the Putnamville Correctional Facility (PCF) hosted a small flag ceremony Thursday in preparation for Memorial Day.

PCF Chaplain Jacinda Estle-Cronau and four minimum-security veteran offenders placed American flags at the entrance to the Putnamville Correctional Facility Cemetery to recognize all veterans.

Correctional Officer Tony Sparks, commander of the Sons of the American Legion at the Greencastle American Legion Post, was present to assist in the ceremony.

All the American flags were provided by the Greencastle American Legion Post.

Putnamville Correctional Facility is getting ready to

introduce the prison's new legion post -- Adam Brown Memorial Post 208 -- that will be chartering this July.

More than 20 offenders who are former military personnel currently active in the post and they must meet national standards for membership.

As the contingent left for the ceremony, members of the Legion formed an alley for them to walk through and salute.

PCF Superintendent Brian Smith explained the motivation for the ceremony.

"We wish to honor all those staff members, offenders and civilians who fought and are currently serving in military services, not just during Memorial Day, but every day," Smith said.