Misawa honors fallen law enforcement during National Police Week

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Kaleb Snay
  • 35th Fighter Wing PA
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  Law enforcement members from Misawa Air Base honored their fallen heroes in support of National Police Week and Peace Officer's Memorial Day, May 14 through May 18 at Misawa Air Base, Japan.

"May 15th is a day to honor all police officers who gave the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty," said 2nd Lt. Harlan Glinski, 35th Security Forces Squadron Logistics and Resources officer. "The entire week is dedicated to police officers from all LE agencies, both military and civilian."

In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation which states May 15 as Peace Officer's Memorial Day to coincide with police week, Glinski added.

Throughout the week, many events were hosted by Misawa's defenders and other LE professionals such as sporting competitions, school visits, a ruck march, SF equipment displays and a vigil.

The May 15th vigil was 24-hours long and was devoted to the reflection of fallen police officers who gave their lives for their country, said Glinski. There were 200 names read by 48 LE personnel throughout the vigil.

"The vigil was an excellent way for us to honor our brethren who have fallen," said U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Christopher Padron, 35th SFS NCO in charge of training. "It's one final way for us to say, 'We remember you and goodbye.'"

Displays were set up at the Exchange to show attendees the weapons, armor and equipment LE personnel use to protect themselves and the base. In addition, LE vehicles from the Hachinohe Police Headquarters were parked outside the Exchange.

"It gave the base community a hands-on experience on how we do our jobs as opposed to just seeing us on frequent vehicle patrols," said U.S. Navy Master-at-Arms 2nd Class William Rubino, Naval Air Facility Misawa Security Detachment Operations leading petty officer. "It lets them see some of the tools of our trade and what we do to fight crime, prevent terrorist attacks and protect the installation."

The 35th SFS military working dog handlers also hosted a demonstration in a roped-off section in the Exchange parking lot.

The culmination of National Police Week ended May 18 with a retreat ceremony that gathered many LE personnel in front of Risner Circle, to include 35th SFS's leading top cop.

"[The ceremony] allows us to close police week and show our appreciation not only to the flag and our country, but to those men and women who have given their lives," said Maj. Leo Martin, 35 SFS commander.

Overall, the week was a very prideful and successful week, Martin added.