ACJ Hosts Veterans Day Program

Published on November 14, 2025

Choices – that was the theme Allegheny County Jail Warden Trevor Wingard focused on during the ACJ’s Veterans Day presentation on November 13.

Specifically, Wingard discussed the positive choice the incarcerated attendees made to serve their country.

“When you were 18 or 19, you made the choice to go to the military,” said Wingard, a veteran of the U.S. Air Force. “You made the choice to serve your country. Never forget that choice you made.

“You should be proud.”

Throughout the program, which featured organizations focused on providing services to veterans, the incarcerated population heard how that choice can serve them well as the move on and out of the criminal justice system.

“You are special,” said Jack Wagner, the founder of Pittsburgh Hires Veterans, and a former Pittsburgh City Council member, Pennsylvania state senator and auditor general. “You served your country. There’s less than seven or eight percent of the population who can say that.”

And employers respect veterans for their dedication, courage and compassion, he said.

“They know you’re good workers,” said Wagner, a veteran of the U.S. Marine Corps who served in Vietnam and received a Purple Heart.

Representatives of the Semper Fi Mission also provided inspiring words to the incarcerated veterans.

“When I left the U.S. Marine Corps, I lost my purpose,” said Kevin Berkeybile, Semper Fi Mission board member. “Veterans need a mission and a purpose. Find out what that is for you.”

And when they do, Wingard reminded them to remember their time serving their country.

“You all did that,” he said. “Don’t forget that. Nobody can take that away.”

Denise Senft, the Veterans Justice Outreach Supervisor for the Veterans Administration, made a presentation about Allegheny County Veterans Court and addressed other ways the VA can help once individuals are released from the ACJ. Kylie Bibza and Krista Shaw from Veterans Place also spoke to the group and provided information.

The morning session concluded with coffee, doughnuts, juice and an opportunity for the incarcerated veterans to meet with the program representatives individually.

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 412-760-4760 (cell).