JOINT BASE ANACOSTIA-BOLLING, Washington, D.C. –
JOINT BASE ANACOSTIA-BOLLING, Washington, D.C. — The 11th Security Forces Squadron handles a mission that extends well beyond the Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling installation gates in Washington, D.C. These defenders are tasked with guarding the installation and stand ready to fight and protect the JBAB community at a moment's notice.
Every year, the nation pauses to honor the dedication, service, and sacrifice of military and civilian law enforcement professionals who put their lives on the line.
To mark National Police Week 2026, defenders from the 11th Wing engaged in a series of team-building exercises and commemorative events across JBAB and Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, May 11-15, 2026.
“This week is about peace and those committed to keep that peace intact,” shared U.S. Air Force Maj. Nicolas Cunningham, commander of the 11th SFS. “During police week, we gather to honor the men and women who dedicate their lives for the protection of their communities.”
JBAB defenders routinely train to ensure they are prepared for the risks inherent to protecting the community.
“It is a commitment that defenders on JBAB are familiar with,” said Cunningham. “The requirement of unwavering readiness, vigilance and a deep sense of duty.”
U.S. Air Force Col. James Clark, commander of JBAB and the 11th Wing, praised the collaborative efforts that keep the installation and its surrounding communities secure.
“I couldn't be prouder of the 'Tough Tigers' of the 11th Security Forces Squadron and the standard of excellence they continue to set,” Clark said.
Throughout the year, the 11th SFS assisted in testing advanced drone defenses, executed combat training exercises, competed in night land navigation and trained for deployed environments.
A key piece of their mission is working with partner law enforcement officers and agencies.
“Their operational success relies heavily on a united front which blends the expertise of our military defenders, our civilian law enforcement professionals, and the steadfast support of our interagency partners,” continued Clark.
During this week’s opening ceremonies, the event featured special guest speaker Jason Knudsen, the U.S. Air Force’s acting deputy director of security forces, and deputy chief of staff for logistics, engineering and force protection.
Knudsen asked defenders to remember those who have made the ultimate sacrifice while serving and use Police Week as an opportunity to build camaraderie, strengthen resilience, and continue professional growth.
“It is nearly impossible to fathom the service and commitment that you all lay forth,” Knudsen said speaking to a crowd of defenders and mission partner law enforcement. “We are all in it together.”
The week featured competitive sports to foster unit cohesion, alongside solemn ceremonies paying tribute to peace officers who lost their lives or became disabled in the line of duty.
National Police Week at JBAB stands as a powerful reminder of the relentless, often quiet work done by the men and women behind the badge.