Ellsworth honors law enforcement during Police Week, May 11 to 16

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Ashley J. Thum
  • 28th Bomb Wing Public Affairs
ELLSWORTH AIR FORCE BASE, S.D. --  The 28th Security Forces Squadron conducted numerous activities and events centered around law enforcement as part of Police Week, May 11 to 16.

The events not only provided a behind-the-scenes look into the highly-trained and often dangerous world of law enforcement, but showcased the professionals who devote their time and disregard their personal safety to protect the public and respond to outbreaks of violence.

Tech. Sgt. Purnell Smith, 28th SFS police services NCO in charge and this year's event coordinator, said President John F. Kennedy established May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day in 1962, and the week in which it falls as Police Week.

"Police Week is a time to recognize the contributions and sacrifices made by law enforcement professionals, educate the public on the services we provide, and promote esprit de corps and camaraderie among our fellow law enforcers," Smith noted.

Some of the highlights of the 2013 celebration included activities geared toward a "smaller" audience. Children of all ages learned about the process of fingerprinting at The Exchange at Ellsworth, and McGruff the Crime Dog paid a special visit to a few lucky classes in the Child Development Center.

During a 5k that spanned the distance between the Bellamy Fitness Center and the 28th SFS Combat Arms Training and Maintenance facility, Airmen teamed up to honor fallen Defenders with a little cardio.

Senior Airman Jared Poe, 28th SFS military working dog handler, participated in the event alongside his partner, Sjors.

"I decided to run for multiple reasons," Poe said. "One, to support Police Week, and two, because I like to run. She (Sjors) was a blast to run with. As long as she's out spending time or working with me, it's always a good time."

With a special retreat ceremony at the base flagpole, military working dog demonstration and a weapons display bringing the total of activities to more than 10, Smith said the estimated 60 volunteers - partnered with support from the local area - helped make this Police Week a success.

"It gives us a chance to give back to our local community and show them a little bit of what we do," Smith added. "I hope this helps the community realize the type of sacrifices the law enforcement community deals with, and lets them know we are here to help ensure their safety."

Although recreation played a recurring role in the week's festivities, Poe added what he enjoyed most was the opportunity to pay homage to fallen heroes.

"I hope people gained an understanding of the importance of remembering those who have served and sacrificed time with family and loved ones to protect them and others for the good of the nation," Poe said.