ACJ Hosts Veterans Day Program
Published on November 12, 2026
“You are more than just a number on a wrist band.”
Chief Deputy Warden Lee Estock said those words to a group of incarcerated veterans as they gathered for the Allegheny County Bureau of Corrections Veterans Day Breakfast ceremony at the ACJ on Nov. 12.
Estock and Deputy Warden Eric Hintemeyer, both U.S. Army veterans, had similar words of encouragement for the male and female veterans who found themselves incarcerated in the ACJ on Veterans Day.
Don’t let one bad choice or decision define their lives, was the message.
“You are a veteran,” Estock said. “You are individuals who served this country. You are individuals who still have value, purpose and potential.”
“Stay positive,” said Hintemeyer, who told the group he joined the military as to escape a tough neighborhood.
No matter the reason they joined, the veterans in attendance were assured there are many who are proud of their service and are available to help them both inside and outside of the ACJ.
“When struggling, reach out,” Estock said. “There are people and organizations that are here today that are committed to helping veterans navigate the challenges of incarceration and help prepare you for re-entry.”
Representatives of Pittsburgh Hires Veterans and Semper Fi Mission attended the ceremony and spoke to those incarcerated.
Chuck Ondo, co-founder and president of Semper Fi Mission, told the veterans the organization will be available to help find them housing, employment and support upon release from the ACJ.
Jack Wagner, founder of Pittsburgh Hires Veterans, stressed the incarcerated veterans should be proud of their service.
“Democracy exists throughout the world because of you,” said Wagner a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps who served in Vietnam and received a Purple Heart. “We believe in you.”
Media inquiries may be directed to Jesse Geleynse, Public Information Officer for the Allegheny County Jail
jesse.geleynse@alleghenycounty.us or by phone at 412-350-1267 or 412-760-4790 (cell).