Yokota celebrates Police Week 2014

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class David C. Danford
  • 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan --  In 1962 President John F. Kennedy signed a bill into law designating May 15 'Peace Officers Memorial Day' honoring local, state and federal law enforcement officers. Traditionally, Police Week is celebrated on the week encompassing May 15, but due to a Samurai Readiness Inspection, members of Yokota Air Base paid tribute to the courage and sacrifices made by law enforcement officers and their families through various activities the following week.

Members from the 374th Security Forces Squadron came together with their Japanese counterparts to host several events for Police Week 2014. The events consisted of a 5k 'Ride and Run to Remember,' a static display at the Yokota Community Center (YCC), a Police Week physical fitness competition and a basketball tournament.

The 'Ride and Run to Remember,' which took place on Monday, May 19, at 6:30 a.m. had approximately 114 participants including several members from the Japan Air Self-Defense Force and the Fussa City police department.

"Working together with our friends in the Fussa police department was a great experience," said Tech. Sgt. Michelle Miller-Faruq, 374th Security Forces Squadron assistant flight chief. "Honoring the fallen with them highlighted how important our job as defenders really is."

Later that day, Security Forces members showcased their capability to defend the base community through Military Working Dog and Combat Arms displays held in front of the YCC. Children were also given the opportunity to meet with McGruff the Crime Dog and explore the inside of a patrol car while their parents experienced the simulated effects of alcohol by wearing 'drunk goggles.'

On Tuesday, 64 personnel from around the Wing and Japanese policemen took part in a competition which tested their teamwork and physical fitness. The competition included an 800 meter sprint, high crawl and low crawl, 4 man push-ups, a HUMVEE push, litter carry and rucking to the Combat Arms firing range where the event concluded with a simulator that tested their knowledge on the appropriate use of force.

The final event was a basketball tournament held at the Samurai Gym where seven teams competed and celebrated the end of Police Week.

"It was challenging, but in the end we all came together to pull off a successful event," Miller-Faruq said. "I look forward to what we'll accomplish with it next year."