PRISONER EXPRESS

I will take you on a journey through the life of someone who has been locked up for almost 20 years and how things have been and the things I've seen. The question is "what makes good correction officers?" In or during the same thought you should contemplate what makes a "good person." Yes, I know that most of you don't consider correction officers people. But, my heart says different. You either are or aren't a real person when it come to being a guard over someone's life.

Your response to their needs will make or break you in this business. You can't let them see you sweat because for most inmates that's the prize. Men caged in like dogs, having pain, abused by others, are but mere animals to most officers. To some, they are like friends they never had, because they show their heart. In some cases you see officers acting with compassion, integrity and pride in their jobs. I have also witnessed strength to its fullest. Unity and power at its best during riots and fights.

Let it be no secret that behind these fences and walls most people are hell bound and live only for the moment. They have no regard for the life of a fellow man much less the life of an officer. I also believe that under that uniform is a good person, a better person than most. A real officer or convict boss has instinct and insight and true stature.

I think a good foundation in life brings forth principled individuals ready, able and willing to be correction officers. Let it be known aloud that nothing is for sure in this present day and age. Life is a never-ending battle against the powers of darkness in which some live. It's not an easy thing being an enforcer of the law.

Above all, I think you have to be willing to be fair and honest. In most cases go above and beyond the call of duty. Roll with the punches, stand your ground and rebound with no retribution. If the law is the name of the game then you too should be forced to live by it. There is no room for foolishness. It's a do or die, you are dealing with hardened criminals and these people are looking for a loophole.

The turnover rate for this type of job in Texas is tremendous. On the unit I'm on the officers work 12-hour shifts and on most units they are left to nature's elements. The heat, if you ever been to Texas and had a taste of a little country in Brazoria, south of Houston, is called burning hell. Our bodies are not designed to take such abuse or made to work under these kinds of conditions. It does something to the mind that will last forever for both guard and prisoner.

I also belong to a growing few that believe the bosses should be treated fair and respectfully at all cost. I think you have to be somewhat a survivor. Some officers work around the same men for a small life time, in excess of 20 years or better. Emotions run high, tears are shed in private, and people are HUMAN. They can, like in my case be of help to you when a loved one dies. Honesty during those times is a plus. You can't do this job if you can't do it honestly.

And if you haven't gotten the picture by now Texas is tough and its corrections officers stand proud. So, to sum it up, you must have endurance and be able to personify you fellow officer to your fullest ability and work from the heart. Always remember "Don't Mess with Texas".