RAF Lakenheath celebrates National Police Week

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Daniel McClay
  • 48th Security Forces Squadron
ROYAL AIR FORCE LAKENHEATH, England --  

National Police Week is observed by millions of people across the United States and other countries to recognize the many contributions of police officers everywhere. This week is used to commemorate and honor those law enforcement officers who have given their life or have been wounded in the line of duty. 

The tradition started when President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as National Peace Officers' Memorial Day and the week of May 15 as National Police Week in 1962. However, it wasn't until May 15, 1982 when the Fraternal Order of Police sponsored the first Annual Memorial Service attended by 125 people. Today, thousands of people, spanning across the many agencies of law enforcement, take this week to honor injured and fallen colleagues. 

National Police Week is a chance for citizens to honor the men and women working in their local law enforcement agencies and those working on military bases. These dedicated personnel are charged with the protection of children, families and personal property. Here in the UK, this event is celebrated with local constabularies, Ministry of Defence, Air Force Office of Special Investigation and military police officers who defend and secure our way of life; some making the ultimate sacrifice. 

Since the establishment of the Air Force Security Forces, 162 members have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. They proudly donned their uniforms, knowing full well the many challenges and the considerable potential for violence they face each day while protecting and serving their communities. Their tireless efforts are marked by the high degree of honor with which they performed their dangerous missions. 

We therefore invite the general public to take a minute and recognize their policing community during National Police Week and remember those who answered the call to duty with such heroic efforts and made the ultimate sacrifice.