Photo By Senior Airman Kylar Vermeulen | Airmen assigned to the 914th Security Forces Squadron march together to honor fallen...... read more read more
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NIAGARA FALLS AIR RESERVE STATION, NY – The 914th Security Forces Squadron rucked through their 10th annual 914th SFS Fallen Defender Memorial March, May 4, 2025, in observance of National Police Week, which pays tribute to officers who have died or have been disabled in the line of duty.
National Police Week was established in 1962 after President John. F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day. The week surrounding that date has since then become known as Police Week, a time for all to honor fallen law enforcement officers and support the loved ones they have left behind.
For the 914th SFS, this event hits home, as three fallen Defenders of the unit who tragically passed away in recent years were recognized at the invocation of the march.
“It is with deep gratitude today, that we remember and honor the heroes who fought for our liberty,” said MSgt. Aleksander Wojciechowicz, 914th SFS Operations Superintendent. “During our march today, please take a moment to remember and honor our fallen defenders, especially our 914th brothers Tech. Sgt. Ian Fallon, Staff Sgt Michael O’Dierno, and Tech. Sgt. Nicholas Vogler.”
The 914th SFS marched five miles in full kit, including ruck sacks, armor plates, helmets and rifles. The added weight symbolizes the invisible, but ever-present burdens, sacrifice and hardship that police and service members can carry. Each pound represents the memory of those lost in the line of duty, and the solidarity of those still with us as they pay tribute to those who lost their lives while defending their nation.
At the end of the ruck, a flag-raising and memorial service was held in front of the 914th Air Refueling Wing Headquarters.
“Today, here at the Niagara Falls Air Reserve Station, we gather to honor the service and sacrifice of our nations law enforcement officers and their families,” Stated Maj. Brian Rhoney, commander of the 914th SFS. “We placed a wreath as a sign of respect and memory for all fallen officers, and specifically those 23 officers who have died in the line of duty in 2025. We dedicate ourselves to preserving their legacy, and continuing through our work to seek peace, justice, and freedom for our nation and its citizens.”
| Date Taken: | 05.04.2025 |
| Date Posted: | 05.06.2025 09:14 |
| Story ID: | 496950 |
| Location: | NIAGARA FALLS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT AIR RESERVE STATION, NEW YORK, US |
| Web Views: | 124 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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