LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. -- LUKE AIR FORCE BASE, Ariz. – Thunderbolts observed National Police Week May 7-11, as the 56th Security Forces Squadron hosted various events to honor the men and women of law enforcement.
In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating the week of May 15 as National Police Week. Since then, police departments across America observe the week through educational and recognition events as well as memorials to remember fallen officers.
For Luke defenders, they reflect on the lives lost during the S.S. Mayaguez incident in 1975 with an annual memorial ceremony honoring the heroes of that event.
The S.S. Mayaguez was seized by the Khmer Rouge communist forces of Cambodia in international waters off the Cambodian coast in 1975. Airmen assigned to then 56th Security Police Squadron were a part of the multi-service assault force who successfully recovered the ship.
“Looking proudly at the formation of young defenders standing before us today, I see them preserving the greatest honor that can possibly be given,” said Jerry Haupt, 56th SFS standards and evaluations superintendent and guest speaker for the Mayaguez ceremony. “Not only to those who paid the ultimate sacrifice rescuing the Mayaguez crew so long ago, but to all who came before them.”
Along with the ceremony, many of the week’s events encouraged comradery within units by participating in fun and challenging events. One of those events was a tactical competition.
Throughout five physical components, Airmen challenged themselves in a race against the clock. These compenents included carrying a litter, flipping tires, pushing a Humvee, push-ups, and firing at targets. The target range drill consisted of a nine-hole drill exercise where members fired through different sized holes in a wall. All were part of the ongoing police week competition.
“We’re coming together in a competitive spirit to honor those law enforcement brothers and sisters who have ended their watch,” said Staff Sgt. Shanise Panich, 56th SFS Base Defense Operations Center controller.
As police week wrapped up, the 56th SFS defenders hoped to have brought more understanding and awareness for the ultimate sacrifice some have given.
“I believe it’s important to preserve our heritage and to understand and appreciate the sacrifices made not only by those who came before us, but also the selfless contributions of those currently serving,” said Haupt. “The common thread that crosses generations of American military members, past and present, is that each of us, during our time, has answered the call.”