10k Ruck March to Remember kicks off Police Week on MHAFB Published May 12, 2014 By Senior Airman Caitlin Guinazu 366th Fighter Wing Public Affairs MOUNTAIN HOME AIR FORCE BASE, Idaho -- Boots pound against hot cement, ruck sacks weighing heavily on the shoulders of men and women as they march the grueling 6.62 miles toward the finish line. Kicking off Mountain Home Air Force Base's Police Week was the annual Ruck March to Remember 10k. "Police Week is a great way to bring the community together and it brings out camaraderie in the squadron," said Staff Sgt. Christopher Yellig, 366th Security Forces Squadron resource advisor. "This week is a way to show our fallen defenders the honor they deserve." Police Week started in 1962 when President John F. Kennedy signed a proclamation designating May 15 and the week in which it falls as Police Week. "It's important that we continue to set aside the time to honor the men and women that protect us on a day to day basis," said Master Sgt. William Gaulke, 366th Security Forces Squadron Plans and Programs superintendent. The Defenders encouraged the public to step into their boots May 12-16. The week-long commemoration will include various events to include an open house and a golf tournament. The celebration even spread outside the gates as Defenders teamed up with their civilian counterparts. "By showcasing some of things that we do during Police Week, we provide awareness to the public," said Gaulke. "We include our military working dogs demonstration and a lot of things our Security Forces do for training. This is another great way to show the public what we do." Promising an experience unlike any other, the week's events recognizes the bravery and sacrifices that state, local and military police officers make every day. "I love my job, working with the police and with security forces is something I have a lot of respect for," said Yellig. "But more than anything, this week is my chance to pay respects to our fallen protectors and their families."