National Police Week concluded at Kunsan Air Base, Republic of Korea, May 17, 2019. Members from the 8th Security Forces Squadron participated and competed in multiple activities May 13 through 17, showcasing some of Kunsan’s finest in action.
National Police Week honors those who serve and have served in law enforcement, as well as memorializes those who’ve made the ultimate sacrifice.
“Being in a remote location away from family and friends, we don’t have civilian police departments to partner with to celebrate and remember the fallen,” said Lt. Col. Eric Horst, 8th SFS commander. “Our unique situation here makes the ceremony all that more important.”
Wolf Pack 8th SFS members participated in various events such as law enforcement capabilities displays, memorial rucks, and sports tournaments to commemorate the week and build camaraderie.
Kunsan’s K-9 team also competed in their first Police Week Memorial K-9 Competition, hosting members from the 51st SFS, 903rd Military Working Dog Detachment, and 503rd MWD Detachment. The competition aimed to give handlers a wider perspective on their job, putting them in uncomfortable situations in which to learn and strengthening the dogs’ tactical obedience and patrol training.
“Police week is more than just displaying a thin blue line, it’s coming together as one force; paying our respect to those before us and those who may come after us,” said Staff Sgt. Monica Rodriguez, 8th SFS MWD trainer. “We give our endless thanks and appreciation to them.”
Whether active military duty, local law enforcement or a military working dog, National Police Week is a chance to honor and recognize those who risk their lives every day to ensure the safety of others.
“Police Week is a very important time for the Security Forces members of the Wolf Pack,” Horst said. “Our time here at Kunsan is short, and we hope we’ve made this a Police Week to remember for all involved.”