JOINT BASE CHARLESTON, S.C. –
In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation which designated May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that date falls as "Police Week." The first official memorial service took place on May 15, 1982. National Police Week was founded to pay tribute to the law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country and to voice our appreciation for all those who currently serve on the front lines of the battle against crime.
As some have seen before, law enforcement officers will place black tape over their shields when a fellow officer has fallen. The significance of the black tape is to honor law enforcement personnel who died while in the line of duty. The symbol of pride and authority becomes the symbol of mourning. It's just a small tribute to those who have given the ultimate sacrifice for the values and freedom of this outstanding nation.
To recognize those who have paved the way for all law enforcement officers, the 628th Security Forces Squadron will be hosting a week of events in honor of National Police Week. The events will be held at various locations throughout base and will be held from 10-14 May.
On May 10, security forces and McGruff "The Crime" Dog will be visiting Hunley Park Elementary, Lambs Elementary and the Child Development Center. During the visits to the schools, Security Forces and McGruff "The Crime" Dog will be providing safety tips and a K-9 demonstration. While at the Child Development Center, Security Forces will provide the opportunity for children to be fingerprinted.
On May 11, security forces will be hosting the Fire Department in a physically demanding challenge known as the "Guns and Hoses Fitness Challenge." They will compete in 10 very demanding events, beginning at the Fitness Center with a "Battle Rattle Run." The rest of the events will be held at the base picnic grounds. The winner of the fitness challenge will have ultimate bragging rights and possession of the trophy. Spectators are welcome and encouraged.
On May 12, security forces will be having a Chili Cook-Off and Pie in the Face Contest. Any security forces member wanting to participate is welcome. Four celebrity judges will have the responsibility to pick the winner of the Chili Cook-Off. Shortly after, pies will be auctioned off to security forces personnel to be thrown at those voted upon by the unit.
On May 13, security forces will be providing two outstanding demonstrations and an additional opportunity for children to be fingerprinted. The event, known as "Security Forces Demo Day," will have a combat arms display and a security forces vehicle display. There will also be demonstrations held by the Security Forces K-9 and Raven Sections. This event will be held at the grassy area adjacent to Dorchester Road in front of the Base Exchange and Commissary from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
On May 14, security forces will be hosting a National Police Week Golf Tournament at the Wrenwoods Golf Course. Shot gun start will be at 8 a.m. This event is open to all base personnel who would like to showcase their golfing skills. The first 18, four-person teams to sign-up with Tech. Sgt. Chad Murphy at 963-8246 or e-mail chad.murphy1@charleson.af.mil will be allowed entry to the tournament. The cost to enter will be $45. The entry fee will cover green fees, golf cart, practice balls, personalized score cards and lunch. Wrenwoods Golf Course will have golf clubs available for rental, if necessary. Lunch will consist of a BBQ Pork Sandwich, baked beans, coleslaw, tea and water. A beverage car will also be provided throughout the tournament to purchase drinks and snack items. Registration will begin at 7 a.m.
To end the week, on May 14, security forces will be conducting a memorial ceremony and retreat at the base flag pole. The memorial ceremony will be the security forces tribute to fallen members of the law enforcement community, to include Security Forces, Office of Special Investigations and South Carolina law enforcement personnel. The guest speaker for this ceremony will be Sheriff Al Cannon from the Charleston County's Sheriff Office. The ceremony will begin at 4 p.m. Everyone is invited to attend.
National Police Week is an opportunity for our law enforcement community to shine and receive the recognition they deserve for placing their lives on the line, day and night. Take the time to thank those professionals in your community who are willing to sacrifice themselves for your freedom and way of life.