FORT EISENHOWER, Ga. – Fort Eisenhower joined law enforcement agencies across the country to observe National Police Week, May 12–16, honoring the commitment, service and sacrifice of those who wear the badge.
The week featured a mix of solemn remembrance and spirited camaraderie through events such as a wreath-laying ceremony, a shooting competition, fishing and golf tournaments, and a bowling challenge.
“You are one family united behind the shield,” said Maj. Gen. Ryan Janovic, commanding general of the Cyber Center of Excellence and Fort Eisenhower, during his remarks at the opening ceremony.
“The complexity of the mission here might seem easy to overlook,” Janovic said. “But when you combine military, local and federal agencies – NSA, FBI, ATF, Georgia State Patrol – that’s where the real power comes from. That’s the magic.”
From precision at the shooting range to lighthearted rivalries on the golf course, the events celebrated not just police work, but the people behind it.
Building Camaraderie and Proficiency
“This is our seventh year coordinating National Police Week events,” said Maryanne Dickerson, chief of police at Fort Eisenhower. “It’s about unity. We work hand in hand with our local partners, and these events build camaraderie and show the community who we are."
That spirit was especially clear during the shooting competition, which brought together law enforcement professionals from across the Central Savannah River Area to compete in three events: the Clay Pigeon Shoot, Dueling Tree Challenge and Combat Pistol Course.
Each event tested participants’ marksmanship, speed and ability to perform under pressure. The Combat Pistol Course challenged competitors to engage targets from multiple positions before finishing with a precision shot on a dueling tree. The Clay Pigeon Shoot required accuracy under time constraints, while the Dueling Tree Challenge offered head-to-head competition.
Sgt. Andrew Justice of the Richmond County Marshal’s Office took first place in the Combat Pistol event and placed second in the Clay Pigeon Shoot.
“I thought the event was awesome, especially the clay pigeon and the combat shooting,” Justice said. “It teaches you that mindset of ‘aim small, miss small,’ and being able to hit a target under time and pressure. Running through that combat course, it’s about moving and thinking while staying accurate. It sharpens your skills.”
Justice also emphasized the value of joint training. “It’s good to be part of an organization and a skill set that allows us to do things like this,” he said.
More than just a competition, the event helped build respect, sharpen skills and strengthen the teamwork needed to keep communities safe.
On the Ground: Officer McGee’s Perspective
Officer Ian McGee, a Department of the Army police officer at Fort Eisenhower, takes a moment beside his patrol vehicle at the Fort Eisenhower Law Enforcement Center. A former Soldier and 31 Bravo (military police) in the Army, McGee continues to serve the community through law enforcement, focusing on safety and connection with those who live and work on the installation. VIEW ORIGINAL
For Officer Ian McGee, a Department of the Army police officer at Fort Eisenhower and former Soldier, Police Week is also a chance to reflect on the everyday impact of law enforcement work.
“I served six years as a 31 Bravo in the Army and became a civilian police officer because I still wanted to serve,” McGee said. “It’s not always glamorous – shift work is hard, and we deal with tough calls – but helping someone who didn’t think anyone would care? That’s why I do this.”
McGee emphasized the unique role Fort Eisenhower officers play in keeping the community safe. “Whether it’s traffic enforcement or responding to emergencies, we’re here to make this place safer,” he said. “For me, it’s not just about patrolling Fort Eisenhower – it’s also about connecting with the people who live and work here.”
A Unified Law Enforcement Mission
Capt. Richard Wilson, law enforcement operations officer with the Cyber Center of Excellence, helped coordinate the week’s events and emphasized the importance of collaboration across agencies.
“We kicked off the week with a proclamation ceremony honoring the fallen, and from there, the goal was to build esprit de corps across agencies,” Wilson said. “Whether it’s a shooting competition or a cookout, every event strengthens relationships.”
Wilson, who commissioned as a military police officer in 2019, said Fort Eisenhower’s layered approach to security includes Department of the Army security guards, civilian police, military police, and military working dog teams – all working in coordination with external partners.
“It’s a team effort,” he said. “None of us can do this alone.”
More Than a Badge
Throughout the week, the message was clear: law enforcement isn’t just a profession – it’s a calling. That message resonated with every handshake, every round fired at the range, and every conversation shared across agency lines.
“The days when you’re working long shifts, when something bad happens, when you miss birthdays or ballgames – it’s not unnoticed,” Janovic told attendees. “Your willingness to serve, and the sacrifices your families make, are deeply appreciated.”
National Police Week at Fort Eisenhower wasn’t just about the events – it was a time to remember those lost, honor those who serve, and recognize the strength that comes from working together.
Social Sharing