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Military law enforcement members from the local area came out to participate in the “Battle of the Badges” competition May 19 on Ramstein.
The event was held as part of National Police Week, proclaimed by President Kennedy in 1962 to pay special recognition to law enforcement officers who lost their lives in the line of duty.
“In security forces, we don’t always have the chance to be together because there are so many different sections and squadrons,” said Tech. Sgt. Efrain Perez, 86th Security Forces Squadron assistant NCO in charge of training. “This is a time we get to come together and celebrate what we do on a daily basis and pay our tribute to those who came before us and those we lost.”
The competition was comprised of many events, including basketball, a relay run, a Humvee push and many other tests of physical strength.
At the end of the event, points were tallied to determine the winning squadron. After hours of stiff competition, the 435th Security Forces Squadron was declared the winner.
“It was good to see all the different squadrons come together,” said Staff Sgt. Daniel Castro, 435th SFS supply NCO in charge. “I encourage more people, especially the community, to come out and participate in police week events because it’s not only about us; it’s about the people we serve as well.”
The Battle of the Badges was only a small part of the events throughout the week. Many other events took place throughout Ramstein to engage with the community and highlight security forces members.
“It’s huge that all across the country various events have been taking place commemorating police week to honor our fallen personnel in this line of duty,” said Chief Master Sgt. James E. Davis, U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa command chief. “I’m proud to be a defender. Every day I pass through the gates, every day I see a beret out there, every day I see a patrol car out there; I’m reminded of what we do. Defense, first impressions and ambassadorship starts with our security forces.”
To conclude National Police Week, a final guard mount was held on the last day. Service members gathered together as words were spoken and candles were lit to honor those who gave so much.
