Cops spread Police Week message to Edwards

  • Published
  • By Airman Mike Young
  • 95th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
EDWARDS AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. --  Team Edwards honored its past and present police officers and their families with several activities and events held throughout the week. 

Police Week, organized primarily by the 95th Security Forces Squadron and other local civilian law enforcement agencies throughout the area, kicked off Monday and will conclude today. 

"Police week is a dedication to those who serve in the law enforcement profession," said Maj. Roy Collins, commander of the 95th SFS. 

The week not only pays tribute to those who have lost their lives in the line of duty, but a big portion of the week is also dedicated to the families of fallen police officers as well, Major Collins said.

Preparation for the week included the coordination of the events and resources to provide a "hero's thank you," to all the officers who serve, both military and civilian, he said. 

The week kicked off Monday with McGruff the Crime Dog visiting the Child Development Center, Base Exchange, Military Personnel Flight and the Youth Center. McGruff's motorcade included a Humvee, four all-terrain vehicles and two patrol cars with their lights on. 

Tuesday, the 95th SFS hosted the Peace Officers Memorial Ceremony at the Air Force Flight Test Center headquarters building. A 21-gun salute was held in memory of fallen officers. 

Throughout the week, there was an assortment of activities and organizations educating people on crime prevention and base safety. 

Face painting, vehicle displays and finger printing for Edwards' children were just a few of the activities that took place Wednesday at the BX parking lot. 

"My favorite part of Police Week is being able to get involved with the community and educating the kids on what the police is all about," said Senior Airman Joshua Mitchell, a police support apprentice with the 95th SFS. 

The squadron also made appearances with McGruff the Crime Dog at Bailey Elementary School where they talked to the students about summer safety. 

The highlight of the week was a retreat ceremony which paid tribute to fallen heroes, Major Collins said.

"Heroes live forever," he said. "This is our way of saying we will not forget."

Police officers go out of their way every day for the safety of others, Airman Mitchell said. 

"Their commitment to serve and protect puts the safety of others before their own," he said. "This is why we take a week out of the year to honor them and their families who stand by them in the line of duty."