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As state officials begin to see an end to the use of West Virginia National Guard members to fill non-inmate-related jobs in the state correctional system, it is a reminder of just how much the Guard does for our state.
"We're continuing to draw down on the National Guard, which has been a tremendous savings for us going forward," said William Marshall, commissioner of the state Division of Corrections and Rehabilitation. We're hopeful by the end of April or the early part of May that we'll be able to have all the National Guard drawn out of our facilities."
These men and women stepped in during a state of emergency that saw a statewide vacancy rate for correctional officers of 30%. Some facilities saw vacancy rates as high as 60%.
Guard members, along with some officers from the Division of Natural Resources, got the job done while the DCR and lawmakers tried to figure out what to do about vacancies and other problems in the agency.
"I would be remiss if I didn't mention what an awesome and excellent job they've done for us," Marshall said. "They are so professional and so regimented. They look great. They are so positive."
It's no surprise. Whether it be flooding, a pandemic, trouble in other states or a worker shortage, the West Virginia National Guard is always ready and willing. Some Guard members even became so good at the DCR jobs that they are going through the Corrections Academy to become full-time officers.
We are fortunate, here in the Mountain State, to be able to rely on such citizen-soldiers. We owe them our gratitude. So, the next time you see them carrying out another mission on our behalf, remember to tell them "Thank you."