31st SFS celebrates Police Week

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Julius Delos Reyes
  • 31st Fighter Wing Public Affairs
AVIANO AIR BASE, Italy --  The 31st Security Forces Squadron led Team Aviano in observing National Police Week with a series of events May 19-21.

The annual observance dates back to 1962, when President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation that designated May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which that date falls as Police Week.

"Police Week honors the law enforcement and security troops who have paid the ultimate sacrifice while protecting people and assets at home and abroad," said Master Sgt. Sean Wells, 31st SFS standardization and evaluation NCO in charge. "The U.S. Air Force has since adopted this outstanding tradition."

Kicking off the observance was a Combat Fun Ruck May 19 along the Area F perimeter. More than 100 Airmen with the 31st SFS and several Italian air force personnel participated in the 6.2-mile march.

"The ruck march was designed to promote camaraderie and build relationships within the Aviano community," Sergeant Wells said. "It reinforces the pride in wearing the badge among our younger troops."

According to Airman 1st Class Gabriel Vest, the ruck march is symbolic to the security forces careerfield.

"It allowed every facet from our career to come together and inspire not only our defenders, but the individuals who support us here at Aviano," Airman Vest said. "It was inspirational to see our Italian counterparts participating, as well as our senior leadership. It showed support to our fallen defenders' families, and humbles many individuals. The march also provided a time to reflect on how fortunate we are as a nation to enjoy our freedoms. It's the least we can do to show our dedication and rigorous work ethic to our fellow Airmen."

Following the ruck march, the 31st SFS hosted a retreat ceremony in front of the 31st Fighter Wing Headquarters building. In addition, the 31st SFS also hosted soccer and softball tournaments followed by barbecues.

"I enjoyed watching others get involved with us in honoring our fallen comrades, looking at how teamwork and hard work came together in a flawless ceremony, listening to others comment on how good the ruck march looked when it finished, having the host nation involved in our celebration and watching the younger Airmen have pride in wearing the security forces badge," Sergeant Wells said. "It was priceless. I believe it was a success."