Police officers compete for top spot

Published May 24, 2012
By Dan Monahan
377th Air Base Wing Public Affairs

KIRTLAND AFB, N.M. -- As part of National Police Week, the 377th Security Forces Group Combat Arms section hosted a pistol shooting competition May 18 at the Kirtland Air Force Base Coyote Canyon Firing Range.

Law enforcement officers from throughout New Mexico participated in the competition, as well as several servicemembers and civilians affiliated with the base.

"The shooting contest went extremely well this year and was a huge success," said Staff Sgt. Samuel Wilson, 377 SFS pistol competition coordinator. "Every year, it seems to get better and better."

The 89 competitors, who were required to use their duty pistols, were graded on their accuracy shooting at paper and steel targets.

"They also had to fire from a variety of distances and shooting positions, including shooting weak hand only, strong hand only, firing while holding a gallon water jug, prone and supine," said Wilson.

Sponsors donated tactical gear and firearms as prizes. Mark Quintana, Department of Energy National Training Center, took first place and received a Sig Sauer P290 pistol.

Proceeds from the $10 entry fee were donated to nonprofit military and civilian law enforcement organizations.