LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va –
Custom coupes and lifted trucks filtered through the checkpoint at the West Ramp on the Langley Air Force Base runway May 5. Sirens blared and bleated while motors roared across the platform during the 633rd Security Forces Squadron car show.
The car show was the opening event for the upcoming Police Week scheduled and facilitated by Security Forces. Vehicle owners had the opportunity to show-off their rides and inform attendees about Police Week.
"I'm glad that there was a good turn-out," said Senior Amn. Chad Hessey, a 633rd SFS police officer. "It improves our sense of community."
More than 25 cars showed up to the event and local community police officers made an appearance with their patrol cars as well. The purpose for the car show was beyond aesthetics, however.
"Police Week is a celebration all across the country," said Lt. Col. Scott Foley, the 633rd SFS commander. "We celebrate who we are as defenders, as well as our brethren in the local communities."
President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation in 1962 declaring May 15 Peace Officers Memorial Day. The memorial service in D.C. began in 1982, and since then has expanded to encompass the entire week, according to www.policeweek.org.
Every year, law enforcement officials across the nation and other worldwide officials ride to Washington D.C. to celebrate and remember. Approximately 25,000 to 40,000 participants attend throughout the week.
Organizations such as the Grand Lodge of the Fraternal Order of Police, the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund and Concerns of Police Survivors all donate resources to the cause.
"We are going all out this year," said Senior Amn. Stephanie Cardwell, the 633rd SFS commander's executive. Cardwell has packed in numerous events for the week.
A 24-hour Memorial Run/Walk will end May 14 with Security Forces walking from Shellbank Fitness Center's outdoor track to Memorial Park in full "battle-rattle" for a memorial service commemorating fallen law enforcement officials, said Cardwell.
A paintball tournament, guest speaker visit and golf tournament will also take place with the whole week capping off with a traditional military ball the night of May 19. A special table will be set aside for fallen Security Forces members so they may join their comrades-in-arms for one last night out.
For more information on Police Week events, contact Cardwell at stephanie.cardwell@us.af.mil or call 757-225-4729.