4th SFS shoots-out competition for National Police Week

  • Published
  • By Senior Airman Marissa Tucker
  • 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  The 4th Security Forces Squadron hosted a National Police Week shoot-off competition at the Combined Arms Training and Maintenance range here May 20.

Officers from the Goldsboro Police Department and Special Weapons and Tactics Team, North Carolina Highway Patrol, Air Force Office of Special Investigations Det. 216, Southeastern Protection Services and the 4th Fighter Wing's own 4th SFS participated in the competition, which consisted of two simulated scenarios designed to test shot accuracy and reaction time.
The event was in support of National Police Week with hopes of building camaraderie between the agencies, said Maj. James Alves, 4th SFS commander.

"We really appreciate you all coming out in support of this event," Major Alves said. "We don't get too many opportunities to work with our local law enforcement counterparts, so this shoot-off is something we are trying to do annually."

Participants began the day with a safety brief where they were able to mingle and share some stories about their jobs. While some have been in law enforcement for more than 20 years, there were some who were new to the game, but eager to showcase their skills.

"I'm ready to show the local law enforcement who runs this," said Airman 1st Class Andrew Hanus, a proud 4th SFS patrolman from Cleveland. "Events like these really help bring everyone together, because we all want to showcase our training."

The shooting course, designed by Staff Sgt. Charles Poling, a CATM instructor with the 4th SFS, challenged competitors to fire accurate shots at targets in several positions and angles in a short amount of time. The course varied from obstructed view scenarios to testing the shooters ability to avoid "hostages and bystanders," simulated by white cardboard.

"Anytime I get the opportunity to shoot, I'm up for it," said Officer Anthony Ravine, Goldsboro Police Department SWAT team. "It's also nice to do something different from our normal duties and come out to have a good time."

The 4th SFS dominated the competition, as Tech Sgt. David Bargor took first place, followed by Officers Collins and Ravine respectively from the Goldsboro Police Department SWAT team. The 4th SFS plans to have a shoot-off annually and hopes to invite more law enforcement officials from throughout North Carolina.