PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE, Colo. -- National Police Week is a time set aside to honor the men and women of law enforcement at the local, state and federal level. This is also a time to remember officers who have given their lives in the line of duty.
In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed Public Law 87-726 designating May 15 as Peace Officers' Memorial Day. May 10 through May 15, 2021, is designated as National Police Week.
Although the holiday has been celebrated throughout the Department of Defense for 59 years, this year marked the newly formed Peterson-Schriever Garrison’s first opportunity to participate in National Police Week, with the 21st Security Forces Squadron, 50th Security Forces Squadron, and Office of Special Investigation Detachments 803 and 807 participating together in morale and remembrance events.
“Our unit, along with the other Front Range security forces units, held several activities throughout the week to pay special recognition to law enforcement officers, OSI agents and SF members who have made the supreme sacrifices in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others,” said Tim Omdal, 21st SFS deputy director. “Each of the activities during the past week allowed us to honor the fallen officers and renew our solemn vow to never forget their sacrifices and the families they left behind.”
The week’s events included a shooting competition at Schriever Air Force Base; an obstacle course at the U.S. Air Force Academy; and a police exposition, a golf tournament, and flag football at Peterson AFB.
“At the end of the day our desired outcome is to come together as one,” said Senior Airman Roderick Silvers, 21st SFS investigator. “It’s good to take a break and enjoy the time spent together in a safe environment, share some stories, make new friends and of course build some comradery with a few competitions to take home some hardware and bragging rights!”