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MAFB celebrates police week

By Airman 1st Class Magen M. Reeves, 341st Missile Wing Public Affairs / Published May 19, 2016

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MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15 as Peace Officer's Memorial Day, and the week surrounding it as National Police Week.

Malmstrom honored police week by holding events May 15-22.

Police Week focuses on recognizing those in law enforcement who have made the ultimate sacrifice as well as those who continue to serve every day and the risks associated with that commitment.

"For me, police week is about recognizing those who served, not just Air Force, but civilian cops and authorities as well," said Senior Airman Charles Spellman, 341st Missile Security Force Squadron defender.

Malmstrom kicked off police week with a retreat ceremony hosted by the 341st Security Forces Group.

At the ceremony, Malmstrom personnel paid their respects by reading the names of those who have passed away in the line of duty. The colors were then retired, and a wreath was placed at the base of the flag pole. Those in attendance then rendered a salute during the playing of taps.

"I really like the retreat because we stay true to our honor and heritage by remembering those that have fallen and have paved the way for a brighter tomorrow," said Spellman.
During the ceremony Col. Robert Frederiksen, 341st SFG commander, took a moment to address the defenders, base leadership and other attending personnel.

"Police officers put their lives on the line every day to protect our community and our families," said Frederiksen. "We must honor their memory, and never forget their sacrifice. Thousands of officers have made the ultimate sacrifice." 

Frederiksen spoke of the risks law enforcement personnel must endure every single day as well as the necessity of the position in the nation as it comes with immense responsibility and dependability.

"According to the National Law Enforcement Officer Memorial Fund, in the past ten years, a total of 1,439 law enforcement officers died in the line of duty, an average of one death every 61 hours," said Frederiksen. "During the first three months of 2016, the number of police officers killed in shootings more than doubled from the same period last year."

According to Capt. Chad Weaver, 741st MSFS and organizer for the week's events, there have been approximately 22,500 known deaths in the line of duty in the United States since 1791.

"It's more than just a badge and beret," said Spellman. "It's putting yourself out there every day. We have the potential to be the first responders to any given situation that arises. Even though the job isn't glorious, we keep America safe 24/7."

In addition to the retreat ceremony, the 341st SFG held a shooting competition between Airmen and local law enforcement.

Nearly 40 Airmen and local police came to the base to participate in the competition. The Great Falls Police Department won top team and GFPD Officer Derek Mahlum won top shooter.

Police week events also included a spouse's immersion for the families of defenders to show them what their Airman does on a day-to-day basis for the nation and a static display at the base exchange.
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