(Cheyenne, WY) – The Wyoming Department of Corrections announced this week that Correctional Officer Cullen Calderon from the Wyoming Medium Correctional Institution in Torrington has been awarded the Medal of Valor from the American Correctional Association.
On September 10th, 2019 Officer Calderon risked his own personal safety in order to prevent the loss of life, according to WDOC. He exhibited extraordinary bravery and valor in the line of duty, as evidenced by his actions, and is deserving of recognition for the courage he demonstrated.
Officer Calderon was posted as the facility Recreation Officer at the time. When the facility began to serve the afternoon meal, he went to assist in the west dining hall. Just before noon, he observed an inmate begin to stab another inmate from behind. Officer Calderon advanced to the assault and began to wrestle the attacker to the ground. Keeping the hand with the weapon under control, he maintained absolute resolve in disarming the inmate. In doing so, his actions prevented any further injury from being inflicted on the other inmate and potentially staff.
“In his selfless act of bravery, with his undaunted courage and unwavering devotion to the duty and the Wyoming Department of Corrections mission, Officer Calderon prevented the attacker from taking the life of another inmate and protected fellow staff from serious injury or death.
“Officer Cullen Calderon’s actions demonstrated the qualities of a leader and reflect his own high standers, which serve to uphold the highest traditions of the Wyoming Department of Corrections.”