JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas –
Fifty years ago, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week around it as National Police Week.
Every year, thousands of police officers around the world participate in events created to honor those who have given the ultimate sacrifice.
Last week, Joint Base San Antonio security forces members and military police officers came together and joined local police services to honor their comrades who have perished.
From there, participants completed a 5K walk and run that led into their attendance of the local police department's memorial services and candlelight ceremonies, including events held by security forces personnel at JBSA-Lackland.
Police officers are faced with many tasks in their job that lend themselves to a great potential for harm.
National Police Week is important because it's a time when those who risk their lives can be recognized and honored.