National Police Week, a week to remember fallen heroes

  • Published
  • By A1C Whitney Laine
  • 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs
Team Fairchild honored fallen heroes by hosting various events and ceremonies during Police Week May 14-18.

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation which designated May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day. Currently, tens of thousands of law enforcement officers from around the world make a trip to Washington, D.C. where they participate in a number of planned events which honor those who paid the ultimate sacrifice.

“Police week is important because it gives us time to pay respect to fallen defenders,” said Staff Sgt. Matthew Mundy, 92nd Security Forces Squadron instructor. “It also allows us to let the local law enforcement agencies come on the installation and continue to build a rapport with the community.”

The 92nd SFS hosted numerous events for Team Fairchild to enjoy, including a Ruck and Run, a Memorial Retreat Ceremony and a kid-friendly Law Enforcement Exposition. Hands-on demonstrations were provided by the 92nd Civil Engineer Squadron Explosive Ordnance Disposal, military working dog teams and the Spokane Police Department.

“Each event holds a different meaning,” said Staff Sgt. Kit Purdy, 92nd Security Forces police services. “For example, the first event was a 14k Fallen Defender Ruck and Run. The 14k represented each of the 14 fallen defenders since 9/11. We also had the Law Enforcement Exposition for Michael Anderson Elementary students to raise awareness for gun and drug safety.”