JBA observes National Police Week 2015

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Preston Webb
  • 11th Wing Public Affairs
JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. --  Joint Base Andrews members honored past and present police officers and defenders during National Police Week May 11-16. Events included a memorial ruck march, wreath laying, golf tournament, candlelight vigil, shooting competition, 5K run, retreat ceremony, and capability showcase.

The showcase featured several demonstrations by different Security Forces organizations and their mission partners.

The displays included; stun-gun, Military Working Dogs, and Explosive Ordnance Disposal demonstrations. The demos allowed JBA members to see first-hand some of the services base defenders provide.

"I think it's important that people see how much [effort] we put into our jobs," said Airman 1st Class Amanda Mascorro, 11th Security Forces Squadron elite gate guard. "They need to know what we go through each and every day."

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which it falls as Police Week. Each year, law enforcement officers from around the world assemble in Washington, D.C., for a series of NPW events.

"This week is about honoring and remembering those who came before us, whatever their position," said Tech Sgt. Christopher Dennis, 11th Security Forces Support Squadron assistant non-commissioned officer in charge of security forces training.

A group of JBA defenders joined law enforcement officers from around the world to honor those who have died in 2014 by attending the 27th Annual Candlelight Vigil in Washington, D.C.

"It was great to see thousands of men and women from different law enforcement agencies from around the world come together and pay their respects and honor those who have lost their lives in the line of duty, "said Staff Sgt. Joseph Rohrer, 11th SFS desk sergeant, "It was absolutely amazing to hear stories from individuals who have lost a loved one and seeing all the candles lit-up in their honor was breathtaking."