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News | May 13, 2016

Police Week to honor, recognize installation officers

By Craig M. Rader DLA Land and Maritime Public Affairs

 

 

Police officers at Defense Supply Center Columbus are hosting a variety of events throughout the week of May 15-21 to recognize the significance of Police Week, including a wreath laying ceremony, a 5k run, an information booth, and a cookout honoring the sacrifices made by the men and women who protect the installation. 

DSCC Police Division Watch Commander Edward Compton Jr. says the week’s events are a way to acknowledge the contributions of the peace officers who commit their lives to the service of public safety. “Police Week honors fallen police officers, and it also gives recognition to the difficult and dangerous jobs being done by the police,” he said. “This is often a thankless job, meaning we don’t go out seeking thanks. We do it because we’re part of the community.”

On the morning of May 16, installation officials will lay a wreath at the future site of a memorial for fallen DSCC police officers. The presentation of the wreath will serve as a solemn tribute to officers who have died in the line of duty. The ceremony will take place at 10 a.m. at Building 58.

While many associates are familiar with the daily routine of passing through the security checkpoints to enter the installation, they may not realize the hazards faced each day by the police officers who manage those entry points. Gate personnel protect the installation from outside physical threats as well as illegal and forbidden weapons and materials seized during vehicle inspections.  

Police representatives will be on hand May 18 in the Building 20 cafeteria during lunch hours displaying an assortment of contraband that has been confiscated from vehicles during visitor inspections. These items include drug paraphernalia and dangerous weapons.

That same day the DSCC police mobile command vehicle will be on display behind Building 20 and open for visitors to tour and learn about. The vehicle, nicknamed “Big Blue”, serves as a self-contained tactical command center which can be used during emergency situations on the installation. 
    
The next day the DSCC Morale Welfare and Recreation office will host a Memorial 5k run/walk event to honor police officers and military members who have died while serving. 

“Police Week allows us to show appreciation for hard work our officers put in every day,” Compton said. “The main focus is the Memorial Day, but we spread it out over the entire week to ensure every officer on every shift can have a chance to receive the recognition they deserve.”

Compton added that the best way for all DSCC employees to participate in Police Week is through a simple gesture – just saying thanks when they see a police officer.