On Tuesday, May 6, 2025, the Bureau held its annual Correctional Workers’ Week Memorial Service honoring the twenty-seven correctional workers who made the ultimate ‘in-the-line-of-duty’ sacrifice. The service took place at the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial in Washington, D.C.
In his keynote address, Director William K. Marshall III honored Supervisory Correctional Systems Specialist Marc Fischer, recognizing his induction into the distinguished ranks of BOP fallen heroes. He stated, “A veteran of the U.S. Coast Guard, Fischer dedicated over 23 years to the Federal Bureau of Prisons… [Fischer’s] loss is deeply felt across the corrections and law enforcement communities. He leaves behind his wife, son, and daughter, as well as grieving friends and colleagues… Fischer's passing serves as a somber reminder of the risks our staff face daily in their commitment to public safety.”
Director Marshall also highlighted the significant milestone marking the anniversary of Senior Officer Specialist Donald F. Reis’ death. On February 28, 1975—fifty years ago—Officer Reis was tragically murdered in a prison chapel at FCI El Reno after devoting 25 years to the Federal Bureau of Prisons, leaving behind his wife and daughter.
He also honored the service and sacrifice of Senior Officer Specialist Louis Pepe of MCC New York, who endured a brutal attack on November 1, 2000. The assault left him severely injured, costing him an eye and causing lasting damage to his skull. Yet, his unwavering perseverance carried him through 24 more years. He passed away on November 24, 2024, after decades of hardship, embodying the resilience and dedication of those who serve in corrections. His story stands as a powerful reminder of the immense risks correctional officers face. His strength and dedication remain an inspiration, and we honor all those who have suffered injuries in the line of duty, wishing them all full recoveries.
Director Marshall closed his address stating, “In its 95-year history, the Bureau of Prisons has mourned the loss of twenty-seven staff members who gave their lives in the line of duty. Each loss leaves a profound impact—not only in the immediate aftermath but also as their memory echoes through the years, serving as a solemn reminder of the vital mission that we uphold. That is why we hold this memorial service—to honor and remember. We must always remember their service and sacrifice.”
HRMD AD L. Cristina Griffith served as Master of Ceremonies, Chaplain Kyu Lee offered the invocation and benediction, and CPD AD Shane Salem presented the “In Memoriam.”
The ceremony featured a moving selection of music, including the National Anthem, performed by Rhea Walker (DOJ), and Taps, played by retired U.S. Army bugler Gene Russell. The opening reflection music, along with a stirring rendition of Amazing Grace, was performed on the bagpipes by Associate General Counsel Paul Irby.
The FCI Cumberland Honor Guard posted the colors. Lieutenant Matthew Brumage; Senior Officer Specialists Russell Beeman, Cody Brenize, William May III, Michael Officer, and Kaison Rohrbaugh; Warehouse Foreman Katlynn MacDonald, and Warden's Secretary Jason Winesickle made up the honor guard.
A large contingent of Central Office staff, other Bureau personnel, and invited guests attended in respectful remembrance.
27 FALLEN HEROES
Joseph B. Waldrupe (Correctional Officer) * USP Leavenworth (KS) * November 10, 1901
Andrew F. Turner (Correctional Officer) * USP Leavenworth (KS) * March 26, 1916
Edgar A. Barr (Correctional Officer) * USP Leavenworth (KS) * March 19, 1917
James R. Brock (Deputy Warden) * USP Atlanta (GA) * December 27, 1917
Andrew H. Leonard (Captain) * USP Leavenworth (KS) * November 14, 1922
Robert G. Warnke (Laundry Foreman) * USP Leavenworth (KS) * June 20, 1929
Royal C. Cline (Correctional Officer) * USP Alcatraz (CA) * May 23, 1938
Harold P. Stites (Senior Officer) * USP Alcatraz (CA) * May 2, 1946
William A. Miller (Correctional Officer) * USP Alcatraz (CA) * May 3, 1946
William W. Latimer (Correctional Officer) * National Training School (WDC) * October 15, 1960
Vern M. Jarvis (Senior Officer) * USP Marion (IL) * January 26, 1969
Wayne L. Selle (Senior Officer) * USP Leavenworth (KS) * July 31, 1973
John W. Johnson (Correctional Officer) * USP Leavenworth (KS) * September 29, 1974
Donald F. Reis (Senior Officer Specialist) * FCI El Reno (OK) * February 28, 1975
Janice R. Hylen (Contract Dietitian) * USP Atlanta (GA) * November 21, 1979
Gregory J. Gunter (Maintenance Mechanic General Foreman) * FCI Petersburg (VA) * December 25, 1982
Gary L. Rowe (Senior Officer) * MCC San Diego (CA) * February 7, 1983
Merle E. Clutts (Senior Officer Specialist) * USP Marion (IL) * October 22, 1983
Robert L. Hoffmann (Senior Officer Specialist) * USP Marion (IL) * October 22, 1983
Boyd H. Spikerman (Correctional Officer) * FCI Oxford (WI) * January 29, 1984
Robert F. Miller (Senior Officer) * USP Lewisburg (PA) * October 12, 1987
D'Antonio A. Washington (Correctional Officer) * USP Atlanta (GA) * December 22, 1994
Scott J. Williams (Senior Officer Specialist) * USP Lompoc (CA) * April 3, 1997
Jose V. Rivera (Correctional Officer) * USP Atwater (CA) * June 20, 2008
Eric J. Williams (Senior Correctional Officer) * USP Canaan (PA) * February 25, 2013
Osvaldo O. Albarati (Supervisory Correctional Officer) * MDC Guaynabo * February 26, 2013
Marc Fischer (Supervisory Correctional Systems Specialist) * USP Atwater (CA) * August 9, 2024
A video highlighting the service will be posted when it becomes available.