The Oregon State Penitentiary (OSP) Veterans Association recently hosted an impactful event focused on the strength of veterans supporting one another—both inside and outside the walls. The gathering brought together incarcerated veterans, leaders from the Oregon Department of Corrections (DOC) and Oregon Department of Veterans’ Affairs (ODVA), and several community organizations committed to veteran support.
Bourne Huddleston, retired First Sergeant in the U.S. Marines and president of the OSP Veterans Association, opened the event by reminding attendees that their service doesn’t end with incarceration. “Everyone in this room understands the importance of veterans helping veterans,” he said. “As incarcerated veterans, you have support in this vital mission,” Huddleston emphasized that veterans share a unique bond and are well-positioned to support one another in rehabilitation and reentry.
Several community leaders joined the conversation, reinforcing this message. Mark Bucholz, a former OSP corrections officer and current director of Honoring Heroes, spoke about his ongoing commitment to veterans of all backgrounds, including those in custody. He introduced Roy McClain, director of Vet Care, who emphasized the importance of housing and employment support. Dr. John Lebow, president of the board for Camp Alma, shared updates about long-term housing solutions and rehabilitation programs for veterans, noting, “There’s no start or end date to our program. We provide services until the stars align for our veterans to move on.”
The sense of unity and respect in the room was palpable. Dr. Nakeia Daniels, Director of ODVA and the first Black woman to lead an Oregon state agency, surprised attendees by opening her remarks with a heartfelt rendition of the national anthem—a rare and powerful gesture. “I just feel a good vibe in this room,” she said. “I’m not here because I decided to take the role. I’m here because I care… I am here because I am one of you.”
Dr. Daniels acknowledged the support of DOC Director Mike Reese and OSP Superintendent Corey Fhuere, a Navy veteran, for their commitment to veteran programs inside correctional facilities. She also delivered a message from Governor Tina Kotek, assuring those present that although they are currently incarcerated, they are not forgotten. “I am here because you matter… A veteran is a veteran is a veteran,” she concluded.
The event served as a reminder of the unbreakable bond shared by those who have served. Veterans at OSP continue to lift one another up, find purpose, and prepare for successful reentry with the help of programs and people who believe in their potential. In partnership with ODVA, DOC, Vet Care, Honoring Heroes, the American Legion, Veterans’ Legacy, and Camp Alma, the OSP Veterans Association continues to embody the powerful mission of veterans helping veterans.
