TDCJ Correctional Training & Development Capt. Rod Kukua says he is prepared for war in every way. He’s even learned the language most commonly used in the Iraqi conflict. In Arabic, for example, “Awgaf. Ifra edika, means, “Stop. Put up your hands.”

When people talk about someone willing to go the extra mile for the public good, they could be talking about Mark Coleman of Dallas. Not only was the former concrete company worker willing to walk an extra mile for the chance to work as a TDCJ correctional officer, he was willing to walk another 45 miles if need be in 25-degree weather with a 40-pound duffel bag strapped to his back.