'A Compassionate Man': Meriden Hero

MERIDEN, CT — When times are tough, heroes emerge. We all know someone who's making a difference right now as we live through unprecedented times. Here at Patch, we've launched an initiative to help recognize these everyday heroes.

This submission comes from Madeline Zavaglia, who has nominated Gaetano G Zavaglia.

Where the nominee lives:
Meriden

Where the person who nominated the hero lives:
Meriden

Name of the nominee:
Gaetano G Zavaglia

Name of the person who nominated the hero:
Madeline Zavaglia

Is the nominee considered an “essential worker”?:
Yes

What does the nominee do for work?:
Correction Officer

Why do you believe the nominee should be recognized or honored?
I worry about him everyday because he is placing his own life to look after others in prison. His priorities are to make sure that the prisoners are safe and healthy along side with his co-workers especially with this COVID-19 pandemic. It isn't easy and it is scary every time he is schedule to work trying to contain the prisoners that change is hard for them when they are not able to be at a social setting.

What’s one thing you want everyone to know about your hero?:
That my son loves his job, that he is a leader not a follower, that he is a strong minded man who loves and enjoys life and holds a compassionate heart.

>> Do YOU have a local hero you would like us to know about? Share their story here.

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