YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan -- Every year, during the week of May 15, the U.S. hosts National Police Week to honor police officers who have passed away or become injured in the line of duty.

The 374th Security Forces Squadron hosted several events throughout the week to pay tribute to those individuals and familiarize the base on a defender’s duties.

“This is important for our unit, so the base understands that we are here as law enforcement and protection,” said Lt. Col. Jonathon Murray, 374th SFS commander. “We want to provide a safe and secure environment for all of Yokota Air Base. That includes not only the military, but also the dependents and our local host nation partners.”

To give an inside view of a defender’s duty, the 374th SFS hosted an open house event with showcasing the different sections of the unit. Security forces also opened up the firing range to the base and held an M4 marksmanship competition, with the top 10 percent receiving a medal.

“It’s important to get the community involved, so they can understand what police officers go through on a day-to-day bases,” said Tech. Sgt. Alexandria Brye, 374th SFS Combat Arms NCO in charge. “To get the community out here, talking with all of us and seeing the different sections of our squadron, they can understand what we do.”

Finishing off Police Week, individuals attended a retreat ceremony to pay their respects to law enforcement killed in the line of duty. The ceremony featured speeches, lowering of the American and Japanese flags and a bell ringing to signify the end of watch for fallen police officers and defenders.

“I think it’s important to honor the fallen police officers and defenders this way,” said Brye. “We do not want to forget who they are and this is a way to showcase their sacrifice.”