TRAVIS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. – They run into dangerous situations to protect their communities, often exposing themselves to great personal risk. They do this without question and without hesitation.
America honors these men and women every year during National Police Week, which is a weeklong series of events to honor fallen peace officers and recognize the sacrifices law enforcement officers make serving their communities.
Security forces Airmen from Travis Air Force Base, California, commemorated National Police Week May 16 by participating in the 29th Annual Solano County Peace Officer’s Memorial Ceremony in Fairfield, California.
Ten defenders representing the 60th and 349th Air Mobility Wings’ Security Forces Squadrons stood in a formation during the ceremony with law enforcement officers from nearly every city in Solano County.
Staff Sgt. Callie McGee, 60th SFS standardization and evaluation evaluator, was one of the Airmen in the formation.
“It’s an honor be a part of this ceremony and show our respect to those who made the ultimate sacrifice,” she said.
Maj. Matthew Stillman, 60th SFS acting commander, led the formation and echoed McGee’s sentiments.
“We have a phenomenal relationship with law enforcement all over Solano County and it’s an honor to be here,” he said. “Our job isn’t easy. It comes with great risk. The cost of freedom and security comes at a great price.”
In 2017, 199 peace officers were killed in the line of duty nation-wide, and since 9/11, 14 security forces Airmen have been killed in action or died while performing their official duties.
The ceremony included the presentation of colors, guest speakers, the playing of Taps, a three-volley salute and a moment of silence to remember all fallen police officers.
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. Since that day, cities all over the United States have held a variety of commemoration events to show their respect for the men and women who serve and protect.
Travis will close Police Week May 18 with a retreat ceremony at the base flagpole outside the 60th AMW headquarters building at 4 p.m. |