VAFB Police Week deemed success

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Shane M. Phipps
  • 30th Space Wing Public Affairs
VAFB recently paid homage to those who gave their lives in the line of duty during National Police Week, May 12 through 16.

In honor of military and civilian law enforcement officers alike, the 30th Security Force Squadron hosted a slew of events all geared toward remembering their fallen brothers and sisters.

"The primary purpose of Police Week is to recognize all military and civilian police officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice," said Lt. Col. Gerald Mulhollen, 30th SFS commander. "It's really important to always remember those who have defended our freedom both at home and deployed. Especially those who have died defending others."

The week commenced with a parade through the installation on Monday and concluded with a candle lighting vigil and closing ceremony, Thursday and Friday respectively.

"The vigil was significant because it symbolized the light that shined from all of the fallen and reminded us of their sacrifice and to honor and never forget them," said Mulhollen.

In addition to commemorating the fallen, the week's events served to involve and educate the general populace.

"While it pains us to lose a Defender, it strengthens us to come together to honor their sacrifice," said Tech. Sgt. Carmine Androsiglio, 30th SFS unit trainer. "Police Week allows us to educate the public as well as pay our respects and keep their memories alive."

For top SFS leadership, this particular Police Week was a successful one and will be remembered fondly.

"The week was one of the best I have ever had in my 21 years of service," explained Mulhollen. "The men and women of the 30th SFS honored our fellow Defenders and civilian brothers and sisters, who wear the badge, with great style. This will be a week I will not soon forget and I am honored to call myself a member of this unit."

For those involved, the success of the week can be attributed to all the individuals who came together to support the various events.

"Everyone in our committee worked very hard to promote this week's events and the base populous came out to show their support," said Androsiglio. "Every year the goal is to make Police Week bigger and reach out to as many people as possible."

Although this year has been deemed a victory, members of the SFS encourage the base to continue to support Police Week in the years to come.

"This was my last Police Week, as a member of this unit and of the Air Force, and I'm thankful for the support that has been shown," said Mulhollen. "I hope that support will continue to grow each year. We don't do what we do for the (recognition) but showing your appreciation to these awesome men and women really goes a long way."