Backing the Blue: Police Week held on Peterson Air Force Base

  • Published
  • By Alethea Smock
  • 21st Space Wing Public Affairs
PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. --  The 21st Security Forces Squadron at Peterson Air Force Base, Colorado, wrapped up a week of activities for National Police Week, May 15-19, 2017.

National Police Week is a time for citizens to recognize the law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty. The week was established in 1962 as a joint resolution in Congress.

“We are privileged to be a part of a larger community of peace officers around the country,” said Tim Omdal, 21st SFS deputy director. “Police week gives us an opportunity to challenge our skills and also work with local officers to recognize our fallen brethren.”

Building 1425 known more commonly as the shoot house, hosted several events including an obstacle course, BBQ and combatives event. All events were designed to highlight the challenges defenders face when apprehending criminals.

“We used non-lethal weapons, our red-man safety suit and other obstacles to practice the skills we need to prepare,” said Staff Sgt. Zachary Hippely, 21st SFS personnel and programs NCO in charge. “These obstacles represent the challenges law enforcement officers face day to day.”

A round robin golf tournament was held May 17 with support from 34 attendees.

Base members had a chance to experience the sensation of distracted driving by using a simulator set up in the 21st Mission Support Group building. By experiencing how distracted driving can lead to an accident, officers hoped to demonstrate the lethality of drunk driving and texting while driving.

The week ended with a ceremonial wreath laying at New Life Church in Colorado Springs, Colorado. The names of 31 fallen officers were read aloud during the folding of the American Flag and laying of the wreath.

The civilian law enforcement community has a close relationship with the 21st SFS as evidenced by the participation of Airmen in local events and local officers using the shoot house for training.

 

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