CANNON AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. — The 27th Special Operations Wing recognized National Police Week throughout the week of May 12 – 16, 2025, at Cannon Air Force Base, New Mexico.
The week kicked off with an opening ceremony and memorial ruck march. The week’s events also included Battle of the Badges, a handgun shooting competition, a “Jail and Bail” fundraiser and a 24-hour vigil for law enforcement officers who have fallen in the line of duty.
“Law enforcement is the backbone of public safety,” said U.S. Air Force Maj. Brigitte Palacios, a squadron commander and Security Forces officer assigned to the 27th SOW. “From the officers on patrol to detectives solving complex crimes, and the dispatchers behind the scenes, each role contributes to a greater mission of justice, order, and service. These men and women are our neighbors, our friends, and often, our first call in times of crisis.”
Clovis Police Department, Portales Police Department, the Curry County Sheriff’s Office, the Roosevelt County Sheriff’s Office and New Mexico State Police participated in the 27th SOW’s observances of Police Week.
“We are proud to stand shoulder to shoulder with our local law enforcement partners,” said Palacios. “National Police Week is a reminder that public safety is a team effort – and our team is stronger together.”
National Police Week was established on Oct. 1, 1962, by President John F. Kennedy. Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day, and the week in which May 15 falls as National Police Week. The two observances serve as a time for law enforcement agencies and the public to recognize and honor the sacrifices made by law enforcement officers.
“This week, we salute the law enforcement professionals who hold the line to protect our communities, including our Defenders,” said U.S. Air Force Col. Robert Johnston, 27th SOW commander. “Their steadfast dedication to safeguarding our freedoms and ensuring our safety deserves our deepest gratitude and enduring respect.”
The hard work and sacrifice of Security Forces Airmen and other law enforcement officers in our community enables the success of the 27th SOW’s mission – to provide unconventional airpower with lethal precision, wherever our country needs it. Click here to read more about what the 27th SOW is doing to deter the Nation’s adversaries through strategic competition.
- Published
- By Staff Sgt. Kevin Williams
- 27th Special Operations Wing
