Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling –
Yesterday, in honor of National Police Week, the DIA Police placed a wreath in the Tighe Lobby of DIA Headquarters to pay tribute to the 415 law enforcement officers killed in the line of duty in 2020 and 2021.
“It’s important that we take time to remember our fellow fallen police officers as we reaffirm our commitment to our mission — protecting the people, property and information of DIA,” said Maj. Robert Lownes, area commander for DIA Headquarters. “We also must ensure our officers understand that we are part of an international community.”
National Police Week began in 1962, when President John F. Kennedy proclaimed May 15 as National Peace Officers Memorial Day and extended the festivities for the week of that date. Events during the annual tradition pay homage to law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty and honor currently serving police members. This year’s National Police Week is May 9-15.
It is customary for law enforcement entities to host a Police Week opening ceremony, where a wreath is usually displayed. This year, the DIA Police was invited to attend the Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling military police wreath event Monday. As a result, DIA moved its ceremony to the same day as the national candlelight vigil. The virtual vigil was yesterday at 8:00 p.m.
DIA Police, in its current form, has been protecting the Agency since 2002. Previous protective armed forces date back to 1963. Last year, the DIA Police hosted its first wreath ceremony with the intent to open this year’s event to the workforce.
“With the ongoing pandemic, it’s important that we remain vigilant in following COVID protocols and limiting the number of people involved in special events,” said DIA Police Chief Andre Tibbs. “Provided we’re through the pandemic next year — I pledge to have an event that is more interactive with the workforce.”
To learn more about the DIA Police, read the lineage article or the impact through pandemic article online. To view the 2020 DIA Police NPW dedication message, watch the video online.