Wright-Patterson AFB to observe Police Week 2026 Published April 21, 2026 By Meghan Howard 88th Air Force Base Wing Public Affairs WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR FORCE BASE, OH -- Wright-Patterson Air Force Base will observe Police Week 2026 from May 11 through May 15 with a series of events hosted by the 88th Security Forces Squadron, honoring fallen defenders, recognizing those who serve, and strengthening connections across the installation. In 1962, President John F. Kennedy designated May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and the week in which it falls as National Police Week. This observance honors law enforcement officers who have made the ultimate sacrifice in the line of duty. At Wright-Patt, Police Week serves as both a time of remembrance and an opportunity to come together in support of the defenders who safeguard the mission and protect the community. The week’s events highlight the professionalism, resilience, and daily commitment of Security Forces and law enforcement partners. Chief Master Sergeant Joseph Serrano, 88th Security Forces Squadron Senior Enlisted Leader, said, “National Police-Week is about us, as law enforcement officers. It is a time etched into the United States History to honor our fallen and a tribute to those who place themselves in harms-way on a daily occurrence.” The week begins Monday, May 11, with a kickoff at 8:30 a.m. on the taxiway at the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. The 88th Air Base Wing commander will deliver remarks, followed by a 2-mile formation run around the museum. Units are encouraged to participate with squadron guidons and cadence. 2026 Police Week Calendar of Events Photo Details / Download Hi-Res On Tuesday, May 12, The Challenge kicks off at 8 a.m. at the Wright Field Track in Area B. Open to both military and civilian participants, teams of four will compete in events including tire flips, ammo carries, rowing and a Humvee push. Registration is required and must be completed by May 8. The MWD & Defender Demo will take place Wednesday, May 13, at 2 p.m. at the softball field near Jarvis Gym in Area A. Military working dogs will showcase their capabilities in obedience, detection and apprehension. There will also be activities for spectators of all ages, including food trucks, bounce houses, and law enforcement engagement booths. Thursday, May 14, features a full day of competition and training. The softball tournament begins at 9 a.m. at the Area B softball fields off Loop Road, with up to 12 teams competing for the Police Week championship with registration required. Later that day, a self-defense class will be held from 4 to 6 p.m. at Wright Field Fitness in the racquetball courts. Security Forces combative instructors will teach practical techniques, including strikes, dominant and non-dominant positions, and escape methods. The class is open to individuals ages 18 and older with a maximum registration of 50 participants. Registration is required and must be completed by May 8. Police Week at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base is more than a series of events. It is a time to honor the legacy of those who have fallen, recognize those who continue to serve, and strengthen the bond between defenders and the community they protect. Serrano said, “With respect to our fallen, Remember Them. Honor them. Stand unified and together as Brothers and Sisters in Arms because this badge is not just worn…it is earned, carried, and displayed as a daily reminder of our profession, not only to the communities we serve but a sign of trust in one another!” For additional information, contact Police Week POCs TSgt. Eliza Austin at 937-904-2963 or SSgt. Mantrease Robertson at 937-257-2080. To register for events, visit: https://www.signupgenius.com/go/10C0548ABA82EA4FAC52-63332663-police?useFullSite=true#/