A little past 1 p.m. a group gathered in the photo department of The Denver Post newsroom.

This day  – Monday, April 16, 2012 – the highest honor in journalism would be awarded. And for the second time in three years, Craig Walker would have that moment of disbelief, elation and awe wash over him.

Craig Walker won his second Pulitzer Prize for feature photography today. In 2010, he won his first.

One of the most deserving people in the world, Craig (shown above, center right) has this demeanor of genuine compassion and humility that he brings to every assignment he gets – even the seemingly small ones. Though he has been honored with many international awards in recent years, he hasn’t lost his center. He hasn’t lost that humility.

The photo essay he won for today told the story of a veteran of the Iraq war who suffers from PTSD. The veteran, Scott Ostrom (center left above), joined us in the newsroom for the announcement and immediate celebration that followed. One of the greatest testaments to Craig’s success is how his subjects speak of him. They respect him, they care for him, and they are truly excited to see him succeed in such a large capacity.

So, congratulations, Craig!! We are all so proud and excited for you.

Please check out Craig Walker’s Pulitzer Prize winning photo essay: Welcome Home.