JOINT BASE MYER-HENDERSON HALL, Va. – Every year in May, police and other law enforcement agencies from around the country come together to celebrate National Police Week in Washington D.C. Established in 1962 by President John F. Kennedy, the week recognizes the service and sacrifice of law enforcement personnel past and present. Commemorative services and ceremonies are held throughout the region, including police motorcades, vigils, tours, and much more.
The police officers from Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall (JBM-HH), who are responsible for the safety and security of the installation, are also charged with protecting the 639 acres of hallowed ground at Arlington National Cemetery (ANC) and frequently participate in ceremonial duties within the cemetery.
As part of this year's official Police Week observances, JBM-HH Chief of Police, William R. Johnson, and the Director of Emergency Services, Maj. Lindsey M. Madero, conducted a formal wreath-laying ceremony at ANC’s Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. This specific event was coordinated to formally recognize law enforcement officers buried at Arlington, as well as those nationwide who sustained fatal injuries in the previous calendar-year.
"This year, the JBM-HH Chief of Police, Provost Marshal, CID Washington Field Office Special Agent in Charge (SAC) and the Assistant SAC presented a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in Arlington National Military Cemetery,” said Madero. “The joint presentation symbolizes the unity between law enforcement and CID in our daily mission and in recognition of service and sacrifice."
Standing side by side before the hallowed Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, this unified front of military and civilian law enforcement painted a powerful picture of shared resolve. Against the backdrop of Arlington's sacred grounds, they emphasized that their integrated daily mission of safeguarding the community and protecting the installation is inextricably linked to honoring those who gave their lives.
"Ceremonies like the wreath laying allow us to pause and reflect on the legacy of service and sacrifice of those who have fallen, while also recognizing the continued dedication of those who serve, whether in the military or those of us that wear the badge," said Johnson. “It’s a time of remembrance, gratitude, and unity for both law enforcement and military sacrifices."
While the formal observances of National Police Week only last a few days, the commitment of the men and women who protect these hallowed grounds continue year-round. As they return to their daily watch over Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall and Arlington National Cemetery, they carry with them the solemn reminder of the heroes resting behind them and remain united in service and steadfast in their duty.
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