Veteran Kelly Cornick, 42, is a supervising officer at HMP Guys Marsh in Dorset and has featured in the Festival of Remembrance twice in recent years, including marching at the Cenotaph.
Before joining the prison service, she served in the British Army in Germany for three years.
Kelly is now actively encouraging other military leavers to consider a second career in the prison service, saying key skills gained in the Forces can help protect the public and reduce crime.
Ahead of Armistice Day on November 11, she is championing the role as a rewarding option for veterans.
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She said: “I joined the Forces when I was 17, following in my dad’s footsteps – he did 43 years in the army. The experience was invaluable and it helped me become a personal trainer and fitness instructor after I returned to the UK.
“When I was looking for something new, joining the prison service felt like a natural step – you still have that structure, teamwork, and the chance to make a lasting difference.”
In her current position she works with complex prisoners and trains colleagues as a use of force instructor.
Deputy prime minister David Lammy said: “I am honoured to see that many armed forces leavers choose to begin new careers in our prison and probation roles.”