SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas — Members of the 82nd Security Forces Squadron and Air Force Office of Special Investigations Detachment 411 as well as Sheppard AFB leadership and guests on May 13, 2022, paid homage during the annual Police Week Retreat here to those Airmen and law enforcement officers who paid the ultimate price in the line of duty.
The retreat was the culmination of several events throughout the week to pay respects, show capabilities and say thank you to leadership and community partners.
President John F. Kennedy in 1962 signed Public Law 87-726, officially declaring May 15 as Police Officers Memorial Day, and the week of the May 15 would be recognized as National Police Week.
Some 200 defenders and special agents have been killed in the line of duty since 1950, whether at a deployed location, in an aircraft or automobile accident, or responding to a call.
Maj. Kyle Morgan, 82nd SFS commander, said the week was somber as they reflected on the service and sacrifice of those charged with protecting and serving their communities. He said officers have worked devotedly and selflessly regardless of the perils and hazards that come with the job.
“These officers have given us and our country the eternal freedom from fear of violence and civil disorder we often see on our televisions affecting other nations,” he said. “For these actions, the men and women in this profession by their patriotic service deserve the respect and gratitude of everyone in our great republic.”
During the retreat, defenders and special agents performed a guard mount, or roll call, for those killed in Operation Iraqi Freedom, Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Freedom’s Sentinel.