WHITEMAN AIR FORCE BASE, Mo. -- Police Week, an observance recognized throughout the U.S., begins May 14. Recognizing the sacrifices and duties that both civilian and military law enforcement take on every day, Police Week coincides with Peace Officer Memorial Day, a day set aside to remember and honor law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty.
U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Trajan Lewis, 509th Security Forces Squadron security forces evaluator, said Police Week carries special significance to military security forces.
“This event really brings out the camaraderie in our Defenders and celebrates the lives of those we’ve lost,” said Lewis. “We want to remember them for the ultimate sacrifice they made in the defense of our country.”
Security Forces guard some of the military’s most valuable assets and ensure the safety of service members and their families. Lewis feels passionately about the bravery and dedication of Air Force Security Forces members to the U.S. and its people.
“Defenders often work long hours, spend time away from their families and lead headfirst into unpredictable situations,” said Lewis. “They have to be flexible to accomplish the mission the Air Force requires of them.”
509th SFS have planned Police Week events on base all week long, but their yearly ruck march is one of the most important events to Tech Sgt. Joseph Anselmo, 509th SFS non-commissioned officer in charge of the Weapons Standardization Section.
“The ruck march is a short distance, but it gives our Airmen a good, solace event to internalize and remember the sacrifices Defenders have made,” said Anselmo. “The little bit of pain and physical activity is just an ounce of what our fallen Defenders felt and it’s a good way to remember them.”
Police week is an opportunity for all service members and civilians to remember and honor fallen Defenders. The 509th SFS has planned multiple events throughout next week to allow all Airmen and their families to connect with and learn more about Air Force Defenders.