SPECIAL EDITION
WARFIGHTER TEAMWORK
2 | THE DRAGOON Fall 2009 MPRA QUARTERLY www.mpraonline.org | 3
AeroVironment. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45Creative.Building.Products. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27Diamondback.Tactical. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 48Elite.K-9 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45First-Light. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4Galls. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20Garrett.Container.Systems,.Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . 23Golight. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45Lynn.Peavey.Company . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30Magnum.Spike. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2North.American.Traffic. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28Patriot3 .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..29Revision.Eyewear. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19Supporting Firm memberS . . . . . . . 42-43University.of.Phoenix.Online. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 47
President’s.Message. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
From.the.Commandant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6
Regimental.Command.Sergeant.Major . . . . 7
From.the.Chief .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 8
Supporting.the.MP.Poem. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9
Where.Are.They.Now?. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-13
Military.Police.History . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-15
89th.MP.Brigade.Hosts.Anniversary.Celebration.in.Baghdad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16
2009.MPRA.Tech.Expo. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18,.38
Celebrating.68.Years. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21
Warfighter.Challenge. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
Ride.for.the.Fallen. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
Challenge.at.Lost.Lake. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
MP.Museum:.Theater-Made.MP.Patches . . 32
MP.Museum:.Vietnam.Memories. . . . . . . . . . 33
Law.Enforcement.Explorer.Academy. . . 34-36
“Top.Dog”.Competition.Winner. . . . . . . . . . . 39
MPRA.Online.-.New.Interactive.Look. . . . . . 44
TAPS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46
MPRAcontents >
MP MEMORIAL GROVE: A WALK DOWN MEMORY LANE 17A.focal.point.for.past,.present.and.future.Military.Police.Soldiers.and.their.families .
YEAR OF THE NCO 37Distinguished.Service.Cross.recipient,.Sgt ..1st.Class.Timothy.Nein,.outlines.keys.to.success .
WE WILL NEVER FORGET 40The.Provost.Marshal.General.of.the.Army.hosted.a.MP.Wreath.Laying.and.Remembrance.Ceremony.at.the.Arlington.National.Cemetery .
FROM THE COVER
FROM THE COVER
ABOUT US IN THIS ISSUE
ADVERTISERS
Warfighter pride
Photo.by.Benjamin.Marrow.and.Michael.Curtis
The.Dragoon.is.the.official.publication.of.the.Military.Police.Regimental.Association .
Our PurposeThe.purpose.of..The.Dragoon.is.to..promote.professionalism,.develop.a.sense.of.belonging,..and.enhance.combat.readiness.and.cohesion.in..the.Regiment.through.information.from.active,.reserve.and.retired.components .
Become a MemberFor.membership.information.contact..Rick.Harne.at.573-329-6772.or.via.email.at.harner@mpraonline.org .
Advertising InformationTo.advertise.in.the.next.issue.of.MPRA.Quarterly..‘The.Dragoon’.contact.Mandy.Stillwell.at.573-329-6772.or.via.email.at.stillwellm@mpraonline.org .
Contact UsTo.submit.articles.and.graphics:military police regimental AssociationATTN:.The.Dragoon,.P .O ..Box.2182Fort.Leonard.Wood,.MO.65473www .MPRAonline .orgEmail:[email protected]
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Anniversary week at the home of the Regiment has
passed and most of you have returned to your homes
and duty locations around the world. I want to thank
each and every one of you personally for your support to
MPRA and all of its programs. Without your continued
support, what we do for MP Soldiers and their families
would not be possible. Membership in MPRA has
grown by 1300 members in the past three months and
continues to grow. All it takes for our continuing growth
is for our current members to spread the word about
what MPRA does for Soldiers coupled with making
MPRA a “relevant” organization that provides a valued
service to our members.
Our vendor displays and technical exhibits this year were a huge success. We had a
record 62 vendors with 18 attending for the first time. Two universities were interested
partnering with MPRA to provide even more scholarship opportunities for MP spouses
and children. Numerous contributions were made to the Legacy Programs by our
corporate sponsors! (They will be listed later in this edition of the Quarterly.) The third
phase of the MP Regimental Walkway was dedicated, which included the installation
of a kiosk used to locate bricks within the Grove. SGM (R) Don Rose became our
second national board member to be selected for the MP Hall of Fame, as he was
inducted along with Colonel (R) Ted Spain and Medal of Honor winner 1SG (R) Nick
Bacon. The first-ever Local Chapter Luncheon was held and tremendous progress
was made toward standing up 5 new chapters. Most significantly, we held our second
annual Gold Star reception, where we were able to spend time with the families of our
fallen heroes. May God bless each of these wonderful families who have sacrificed so
very much. They will always be a part of the Military Police family.
The new MPRA website is up and running. It is still under construction in
some areas but I think you will like what you see. It provides many state-of-the-art
capabilities as well as links to sites such as Twitter and Facebook, so we can reach out
to a broader audience. Because our website is a crucial link to our members, we felt it
extremely important that it be up to date and “user friendly” at all times. The new site
allows you to easily navigate through all that MPRA has to offer. We value your input so
go to http://mpraonline.org and tell us what you think.
Once again, thanks to each of you for your support to MPRA. We are extremely
proud of this organization and the direction it is headed. We do it all for our members
and for this Great Regiment, so go out and tell somebody what MPRA can do for them.
Force of Choice! HOOAH!
CSM ( R ) Tony McGee
President, MPRA National
Board of Directors
From the President.As.always,.this.magazine.features.information.
from.the.MPRA.community,.news.from.the.home.of.the.Regiment.at.Fort.Leonard.Wood,.historical.accounts,.and.stories.from.active.duty.and.retired.Military.Police.from.around.the.world ..This.publication.strives.to.be.the.common.link.among.past.and.present.Military.Police.men.and.women.everywhere,.and.relies.heavily.on.stories.and.news.sent.to.us.from.the.field ..We.are.very.grateful.to.those.who.contributed.to.this.issue .
We.welcome.articles.and.photographs.by.and.about.soldiers.of.any.rank,.military.spouses.and.families,.DA.civilians,.and.others ..Articles.and.photograph.submissions.should.be.military.police-related.and.may.include.human.interest,.military.operations.and.exercises,.history,.personal.viewpoints.or.other.areas.of.general.interest .
All.information.contained.in.submitted.articles,.photographs.and.graphics.must.be.unclassified,.nonsensitive,.and.releasable.to.the.public ..Publishing.of.all.submissions.cannot.be.guaranteed ..All.articles.accepted.for.publication.are.subject.to.editing ..
We.look.forward.to.hearing.from.you.for.future.issues.of.the.Dragoon!
President CSM (R) Tony McGee [[email protected]]
ViCe President CSM (R) Mike True [[email protected]]
ViCe President for MeMbershiP MAJ Caroline Horton [[email protected]]
seCretArY Mrs. Scarlett Denson [[email protected]]
treAsurer / ProduCtion CoordinAtorMrs. Amanda Stillwell [[email protected]]
MuseuM rePresentAtiVe Mr. James Rogers [[email protected]]
MeMbershiP rePresentAtiVes
CW3 Paul Arthur [[email protected]] RCSM ( R) James Barrett [[email protected]]
COL (R) Orv Butts [[email protected]]COL (R) Arnaldo Claudio [[email protected]]
BG (R) Stephen Curry [[email protected]] CSM (R) Merle Jones [[email protected]]
RCSM Charles Kirkland [[email protected]]CSM Roger Macon [[email protected]]
CSM (R) Dorsey Newcomb [[email protected]]LTC Bryan Patridge [[email protected]]
SGM (R) Don Rose [[email protected]] CSM James Schultz [[email protected]]
LTC Kevin Vereen [[email protected]]SFC John Waters [[email protected]]LTC James Wilson [[email protected]]
COL Anthony Zabek [[email protected]]
Gift shoP MAnAGer Beth Bellerby [[email protected]]
Gift shoP AssistAnt MAnAGer Leslie Wilson [[email protected]]
exeCutiVe direCtor Rick Harne [[email protected]]
editor-in-Chief Jim Rogers [[email protected]]
CreAtiVe direCtor Stacie L. Marshall [[email protected]]
editor for retiree AffAirs COL (R) Orv Butts [[email protected]]
the drAGoon: The Official Magazine of the Military Police Regimental Association
MPRAQuarterly
FROM THE EDITOR
>
6 | THE DRAGOON Fall 2009
LETTERS
MPRA QUARTERLY www.mpraonline.org | 7
LETTERS
The Military Police Corps continues
operations at the ‘Tip of the Spear’.
Our Soldiers and their families are
sacrificing greatly during this time of war,
yet we continue to see high enlistment
and reenlistment rates. I believe that this
is a testament to the esprit de corps and
camaraderie of the Regimental family. The
demand for our military police to conduct
Police, Detainee, and Stability Operations in
support of OEF and OIF is growing. We now
even have an MP Brigade forward deployed
for the first time in Afghanistan, with addi-
tional demands for military police looming
just over the horizon. For the foreseeable
future, the Military Police Corps Regiment
remains the ‘Force of Choice.’
We recently completed the War-Fighter
Challenge, Senior Leader Forum, and
Regimental Week activities, all with the
phenomenal support of the Military Police
Regimental Association. Included in the
activities was the naming of the Forensics
Training Facility in honor of MG(Ret) Paul
Timmerberg, MP Memorial Grove expan-
sion and kiosk dedication, MP Gold Star
Family Reception, Regimental Review, in
addition to many other special events. Of
specific interest was the world-wide Military
Police 68-mile run in honor of the 68th An-
niversary of the Military Police Corps. Many
military police units from around the nation
and overseas completed the long distance
run in relays and extended legs. The first
Military Police to complete the run were
from TF-134 in Baghdad, Iraq. The final 4
miles of the 68-mile challenge conducted at
the Home of the Regiment concluded with
several thousand Military Police Soldiers
in a mile long formation. They crossed the
finish line to motivating music and cadence
as they completed the all-night run shortly
before sunrise. See our USAMPS Home Page
for photos: http://www.wood.army.mil/
usamps/
Mark your calendars for the 69th Military
Police Corps Anniversary, War-Fighter
Competition, and Regimental Week activi-
ties starting on Wednesday, 15 September
2010 with the War-Fighter Competition, and
concluding with the Military Police Ball on
the evening of Saturday, 25 September 2010.
Brigadier General
David Phillips
From the Commandant
LETTERS
“Hearts of Lions!”
I am very happy to report that this
year’s Warfighter Competition was a huge
success, and that our Junior NCOs and
Soldiers represented our units extremely
well. This being the “Year of the NCO,” it
was especially rewarding to watch our ju-
nior noncommissioned officers lead from
the front. It was heart that pushed them to
the finish line, and when it was all said and
done, they had traveled approximately 70
miles on foot. As they stood there in the
dark at 0430 in the morning before the last
event (fifteen-mile endurance march), I
told them that it didn’t matter if their legs
and bodies were aching. What makes a
Warfighter is heart, and that heart would
get them to the finish line. As we moni-
tored them throughout the march, I could
see that those words were about as true
as true could get. You could see it in their
faces…they wanted it to be over and heart
was at the wheel. We can be confident that
our Regiment’s future is in great shape with
rising superstars such as these junior NCOs
and Soldiers in our ranks. Job well done!
With all competitions, you can only
have one winner and this year’s Warfighter
Champion team for 2009 came from the
mighty 759th MP Battalion, Fort. Carson,
CO. A young CPL by the name of Thomas
Lemonds led SPC Leonard Salazar and PFC
Sam Meroney to victory. To have a CPL in
the year of the NCO lead his team to top
honors was symbolic, to say the least.
Our Warfighter First Runner Up was
from the 92nd MP Battalion, Fort Leonard
Wood, MO. This team was lead by SSG
John Atkins, with team members SPC Ar-
ron Ebersol and PFC Kevin Wallace. Second
runner-up was from the 289th MP CO, Fort
Meyer, VA, led by CPL Gordon Simonis,
with team members PFC Matthew Wetzel
and PFC John Salinas.
Please take the time to go to the USAMPS
and MPRA web sites to view and download
pictures of this great event, as well as other
anniversary week events.
Thank you once again to our great spon-
sors and to the MPRA. There is no way we
could possibly conduct an event of this
magnitude without the tremendous backing
of patriotic organizations such as yours. We
look forward to your continued support in
the future.
Knowing that next year’s competition
will be upon us before we know it, long
range planning has already begun. Let’s
start preparing now so that our best and
brightest can experience this challenge.
As always I will sign off with reminding
everyone to keep our Soldiers currently in
harm’s way, and the families that are hold-
ing down the home front, in your thoughts
and prayers.
“Of the Troops and For the Troops”
“NCOs Lead the Way”
Regimental Command
Sergeant Major
Charles R. Kirkland
From the Regimental Command Sergeant Major
The Winning Team. Photo by Benjamin Marrow and Michael Curtis from the FLW VIC Office.
> Victory in Sight. Photo by Benjamin Marrow and Michael Curtis from the FLW VIC Office.
>
WHY SHOULD YOU BELONG TO THE MPRA?Because of who you were, are and forever will be – an MPThe Military Police Regimental Association promotes professionalism, develops a sense of belonging and enhances combat readiness and cohesion in the regiment through information from active, reserve and retired components. www.mpraonline.org To become a member, contact Rick Harne at 573-329-6772 or via email at [email protected].
LoyaLty - Duty - Respect - HonoR - IntegRIty - seLfLess seRvIce - peRsonaL couRage
BECOME A MEMBER
8 | THE DRAGOON Fall 2009
LETTERS
MPRA QUARTERLY www.mpraonline.org | 9
LETTERS
Letter to MP Spouses
LETTERS
From the Regimental Warrant Officer
Before I get started with answering the question, “Why do CID agents wear ‘U.S.’ rank and civilian clothes?” I have to recognize what a fantastic job the MPRA did concerning the 68th Military Police Regi-mental Week. It is really hard to express in words the phenomenal success of the week because of MPRA, especially the Memorial Tribute from the singers to the speech given by RCSM Kirkland. It was truly inspiration-al. There is no doubt that the Military Police Corps future is bright based on the Warriors who competed in the Warfighter Challenge. They are Soldiers with whom everyone should strive to emulate. The Military Police Corps is definitely representing “The Year of the NCO.”
Ok, back to the question….”Why do CID agents wear ‘U.S.’ rank and civilian clothes?” This is a conversation I have with many senior leaders within the Regiment.
Potential subjects must be free from real or perceived coercion or undue influence. Circumstances that would make a subject feel pressured in any way must be avoided. In accordance with the Uniform Code of Military Justice, “to be valid, consent must be voluntary,” when conducting searches and collecting statements.
All statements obtained during an inter-rogation must not be achieved through the use of “coercion, unlawful influence or unlawful inducement.” If I’m interrogat-ing a Private and I’m wearing CW5 rank the Private could perceive that he must waive his
rights since they are conditioned to follow orders. It also goes the other way. A senior ranking officer may feel he does not have to be cooperative with such procedures as rending his fingerprints. “Military suspects/subjects may be fingerprinted without their consent. Reasonable force may be used, if necessary. Furthermore, the Soldier’s com-mander can order the Soldier to submit to fingerprinting.” Wearing the “U.S.” rank or civilian clothes can assist in mitigating these issues and takes rank out of the equation.
Many feel the agents should only have to wear the “U.S.” rank when they are inter-rogating someone. In a deployed environ-ment, the FOBs are small and everyone knows everyone and their business, so the logical conclusion would be that if an agent wore his rank others would know and it could compromise future investigations.
Just like other Soldiers within the Army, CID agents are required to follow orders and regulations. AR 195-2, Criminal Investiga-tion Activities (15 May 09) indicates the following concerning disclosure of rank:
a. The USACIDC special agents conduct-ing USACIDC investigation activities are not required to reveal their military or civilian rank, grade, or position other than as “CID Special Agent.” Their status as members of the U.S. Army or as a USACIDC special agent may also be concealed if such con-cealment is in the interest of effective law enforcement.
b. The USACIDC special agents will include their military or civilian rank or grade in signing all correspondence except USACIDC Reports of Investigation and documents related thereto.
c. The USACIDC special agents may wear the “U.S.” insignia in lieu of insignia of rank when wearing field uniforms.
d. Civilian USACIDC special agents, as directed by the Commanding General, USACIDC, may wear the field uniform in a combat environment or military operations other than war in the manner described in AR 670–1.
I have always been told “perception is re-ality.” A CID office sends 10 agents off post to conduct canvass interviews concerning a murder by a Soldier in a suburb of Portland, Oregon and they are wearing ACUs. It is not an area with a large military population. The first words in the liberal press and by
the ACLU would be “the military violates posse comitatus.” They would not be accu-rate in their assumption because “the Posse Comitatus Act prohibits the use of the Army elements, including CID, its agents and sources by civilian law enforcement author-ities in the enforcement of civilian laws. But the agents are not enforcing civilian laws; they are satisfying the Army investigative needs in a criminal matter of Army interest. The Army interest must be a direct interest, must exist at the time of the CID action, and must be reasonably connected with the CID action taken.”
A good friend of mine who was a highly-respected agent was named in a Posse Comitatus law suit against the US Govern-ment. He had to seek protection by the US Attorney’s Office and be named as a sub-codefendant. The case involved a murder off the installation which was committed by a Soldier. Of course, it was all a ploy by the defense, but what if the judge would have granted a dismissal? I do not think there is a leader in the Army who would want some-one like Akbar or Green to not spend the rest of their lives in prison because of rank and/or civilian clothes.
There is a balance and many Special Agents-in-Charge (SAC) have found the balance. The SAC in a large office, like Fort Hood, probably wears his ACUs and rank 95% of the time because he is not conduct-ing the critical interviews and searches. A SAC in a four- or five-man office would wear her uniform less because she does not have the luxury of not having a caseload and needs to conduct investigative activity.
One of the questions I get about this topic is, “Subjects are not getting their cases dismissed because of the rank and ACUs, so why do not you wear them?” There are only two issues I know of concerning this matter, the one I already addressed and one con-cerning a CW3 in a small office wearing his uniform and rank. In both cases the defense pushed for dismissal. I don’t think we have many issues because our leadership ensures that we do the right thing.
Do What Has To Be DoneOf the Troops, For the Troops
Regimental Warrant Officer T.L. Williams
I am a spouse follow me.I am the spouse of an honored MP.The army is now a hard place to be,This war has gone on for so long you see.
We are in a support job just like our soldier you see,Holding the home front so they can be free.To fight the enemy on his home land,For freedom and honor we both do stand.
We also are tough and we go to war,But we do it standing on our own shore.Like our soldiers, we fight the enemyBut we’ll do it on our knees talking to Father, Son and Spirit the Three.
We support fellow spouses and othersBeing their sisters, friends and mothers.We lean on each other and hold a handWhile together we wait and each day we stand.
We feel lonely and oh so sadSometimes we even get rip roaring mad.There are days on end where we hunger and thirstThinking if we can’t hold our spouses we will burst.
The spouse, the mother, the teacher, the nurseCarrying our supplies along in our purseWe watch the children, we make the beds,We push the B button to get our meds.
We buy the groceries and wash the clothesWhile our spouses are out fighting our foes.You don’t want to be where we will beGuarding the home front waiting for thee.
Packages, letters, so many we send,Too many to count that we have penned.The post office people know us by name,It may be our only claim to fame.
Just like the two lonely MPs guarding the roads,Their wives are at home carrying their loads,Directing their families and doing what they can,A silent lonely partner making her stand.
The war is long, the days come and go,The hours drag by, the minutes are slow.It’s hard when the children hold us and cryOur eyes mist with tears and we let out a sigh.
We answer the phone and rockets we hear.They’re aimed at our spouses and our hearts do fear.It was a close call, they hit the ground nearAnd down our cheeks run a silent long tear.
It feels like we can’t make it one more day.We are down on our knees and to God we prayGive us the strength to travel this roadTo support our spouses and help carry their load.
We know our MPs are the first in and the last out.We could sit there distraught and have a great poutBut instead we stand tall and fill our hearts with pride.We will always be by our MPs side.
No one will remember the lonely wifeWho gave of herself and her family’s lifeWho held the home front so our country‘s free,But that’s our job supporting our MP.
SUPPORTING THE MPby Dawn Phillips
10 | THE DRAGOON Fall 2009 MPRA QUARTERLY www.mpraonline.org | 11
SPECIAL FEATURE: WHERE ARE THEY NOW?MPRA QUARTERLY ‘THE DRAGOON’
MPRA QUARTERLY www.mpraonline.org | 11
Colonel (r) Larry b. berrongby COL (R) Orv Butts
My last military assignment was as Assis-
tant Commandant of the MP School when
it was located at Fort McClellan. I had a
little over 28 years of active duty at the time,
but was not actively seeking a civilian job. I
loved what I was doing and was told I could
stay in the job until the 30-year mark.
That changed one day when I received
a call from a Vice President at Wackenhut
Services, Inc., who asked if I would be
interested in interviewing for a job with
the company. I said that I would be, and
drafted a resume to send to him. I then in-
terviewed with LTC (Ret) Nick Chronis who
was the WSI General Manager for the WSI
security operation supporting the Strategic
Petroleum Reserve. Nick offered me the
job as Deputy General Manager and that
began a very enjoyable and rewarding 14-
year career with WSI.
It turns out that a friend, COL (Ret) Walt
Ferguson, had recommended me for the
position with WSI. Walt was working for
WSI at the Nevada Test Site. WSI has hired
many retired and former military person-
nel because they are ideally suited for the
high-level government security positions
that WSI performs in support of agencies
such as the Department of Energy, NASA,
and Department of Defense. BG (Ret) Dave
Foley is the current CEO of WSI and there
are former MPs serving in key positions
through out the company.
WSI is not the only company in the
security industry with a large contingent of
retired and former military personnel, and
if one of you who is reading this is looking
for a job, you probably know someone in
one of these companies. Don’t hesitate to
contact them if you do. Timing, in terms of
what kind of and how many jobs are avail-
able, is a huge factor. Also, don’t expect to
start as a Vice President or General Man-
ager. There will be plenty of opportunities
to work into one of those jobs if you do
well and are willing to move to attain the
job (just like in the military).
I retired from WSI as a Senior Vice Presi-
dent and General Manager in 2006, but I
still do some consulting for the company. I
am very grateful that my military training
and experience prepared me for a civilian
career.
I am also grateful for the friend who
recommended me for my first civilian job,
and for the friends who mentored me
along the way. I tried to pass that along to
others whenever I had an opportunity. If I
can provide advice or assistance to any of
you who are looking for a job please let me
know.
CSm(r) rick morris
by COL (R) Orv Butts
Command Sergeant Major Rick Morris
retired from Fort Campbell, Kentucky, in
2006 as the CSM of the 716th MP Battalion.
Rick and his family settled in Rolla, MO
with his wife AJ. They have a 21-year-old
son, Jake, who is attending the Missouri
University of Science and Technology on a
full-ride Army ROTC Scholarship.
Jake is the Cadet Company Commander
and President of his Fraternity (Pi Kappa
Phi). Rick is the Director of Operations for
Fort Wood Hotels by Ehrhardt Properties
where he runs the day to day operations
for the company that owns five hotels just
outside of Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.
Going to work for Steve Ehrhardt, the
owner of the company, was an easy deci-
sion. “Steve is a caring, smart, decisive
business leader. On the first day, we sat
down and discussed goals, responsibilities
and scope. He said ‘Rick, I want you to run
this company...we’re good, but I want us
to be great! With you running the day to
day operations, I can look forward to other
projects and focus on projects elsewhere.’”
And from that day on, Rick knew that he
was in a great company and that he was
empowered to make things happen.
Rick is very thankful to Steve, and
credits Steve for allowing him the op-
portunity to serve with a great team. Rick
leads a team of seven senior managers
and a company of 100 employees, for one
of the top 5 employers in Pulaski County.
All of the hotels have won national awards
in the past three years. Rick attributes the
successes of the company and hotels to
the managers and employees that make
a huge difference everyday and consid-
ers himself the luckiest guy in the area, “I
have a great team, I have a great family,
and great friends.” Rick is proud of the
fact that his company serves Soldiers and
their families in a number of ways: “We are
the award-winning hotels (the Hampton
Inn, the Fairfield Inn, the Comfort Inn,
the Candlewood Suites, and the MainStay
Suites)...that when Soldiers’ families come
to our area for graduations, they stay with
us...when Soldiers and contractors come
for training and visits, they choose us. We
take this responsibility seriously, and want
to ensure that we serve their needs and
help them make their stay here positive
and memorable. We also employ a lot of
spouses and family members. Our mission
is to serve our guests, our community, and
each other —what a great mission state-
ment! It is more than just words, it is what
we do everyday.”
Rick is still actively engaged in taking
care of Soldiers and their families, and is
involved in numerous organizations. Rick
was elected to a term on the Rolla City
Council and is the Chairman of Phelps for
the Fort (The Rolla Military Affairs Com-
mission).
Rick has been very engaged in the As-
sociation of the United States Army (AUSA)
where he is 1st Vice President, a Life Mem-
ber, and one of three board members for
the Wounded Warrior Fund. The Wounded
Warrior Fund assists Warriors and their
families in providing assistance immedi-
ately (usually within 24 hours) to wounded
warriors and their families. Rick is also
a Board Member of the Pulaski County
Growth Alliance economic development
board, the Pulaski County Tourism Board
of Directors, a Life member of MPRA, VFW,
the Sergeants Major Association, and is
involved in many other causes.
Rick loves golf, softball, and is still
sponsored by Wilson Sports in racquetball.
He spends as much “extra” time as he can
at any body of water with his wife, AJ, and
friends.
Rick’s advice to other leaders as they
think about their transition into the civlian
sector: “Remember your heritage. We
were trained in the best leadership lab in
the world, the United States Army. We are
leaders, fathers, coaches, mentors, politi-
cians, statesmen, chiefs, financial advisors,
accountable for budgets, equipment and
most importantly, we take care of Soldiers!
As a leader in the greatest Army in the
world, you had the responsibility of being
a leader with enormous responsibility
and were accountable for actions that had
strategic impacts on your area of opera-
tions and the reputation of our Army and
Nation. Don’t underestimate how relevant
Army leadership styles are, and how ef-
fective our routines and systems can be.
Leadership is leadership, and the systems
we learned in the Army are certainly trans-
ferrable and relevant to business and the
civlian sector. Organizations that do rou-
tine things routinely well can instinctively
serve their people better. Constant, caring
leadership that empowers employees to
take care of their customers makes them
want to do better!”
Hooah!
WHY SHOULD YOU BELONG TO THE MPRA?Because of who you were, are and forever will be – an MPThe Military Police Regimental Association promotes professionalism, develops a sense of belonging and enhances combat readiness and cohesion in the regiment through information from active, reserve and retired components. www.mpraonline.org To become a member, contact Rick Harne at 573-329-6772 or via email at [email protected].
LoyaLty - Duty - Respect - HonoR - IntegRIty - seLfLess seRvIce - peRsonaL couRage
BECOME A MEMBER
12 | THE DRAGOON Fall 2009 MPRA QUARTERLY www.mpraonline.org | 13
SPECIAL FEATURE: WHERE ARE THEY NOW?MPRA QUARTERLY ‘THE DRAGOON’
Colonel (r) Hugh Clarkby COL (R) Orv Butts
Ten days after he retired in September
1996, the telephone rang: “Hugh, this is
Joe. Would you be interested in doing
some consulting?” Thus began his post-
Army career.
Joe, an SES member, held the purse
strings during his final assignment as
Commandant of the Army Management
Staff College. He knew that the National
Academy of Public Administration wanted
to highlight AMSC in a major study and
recommended they tap him to write that
chapter. One week later, his role grew as
he became co-author of Managing Succes-
sion and Developing Leadership: Grow-
ing the Next Generation of Public Service
Leaders.
The success of that year-long project
generated two additional years as con-
sultant and coach with national execu-
tive development organizations. For the
Graduate School, USDA, he revised the
Executive Potential Program and Women’s
Executive Leadership Program, while also
leading benchmarking seminars. He also
advised the federal Office of Personnel
Management about organizational change
trends, and designed seminars for the Pub-
lic Administration Forum.
Key to that initial success were lessons
learned not only at AMSC, but also as
Executive to the Director of the Army Staff
and as Commander, 14th MP Brigade/Pro-
vost Marshal, VII Corps. Also key was an
informal alliance with several other con-
sultants who had contributed to the NAPA
study. All had held senior positions in
various federal agencies; each brought dif-
ferent expertise. They mixed and matched
interests, skills, and partners as contracts
required.
Tired of commuting between Wash-
ington and his home in rural upstate New
York, a 1999 newspaper ad caught his eye.
The New York State School Boards Associa-
tion sought an expert in strategic plan-
ning, executive development, and training
management to serve as Deputy Director
of Board Development. After three inter-
views, he was selected for the position. Six
months later came the big surprise: the Ex-
ecutive Director fired his boss and named
him Director of Leadership Development,
changing the position’s title to match the
expanded scope of responsibilities.
For seven years, his team identified
competencies required by 5000 school
board members and planned, prepared,
and delivered a multi-faceted training
program that included a statewide annual
convention, weekend academies, and ex-
tensive regional and local workshops, plus
an online campus.
Now, retired for the second time, he ad-
vises KaelenDrake, a Montana-based team
of consultants, about security matters and
also serves on his town’s comprehensive
plan committee to determine where the
community wants to be in 2030 and how to
get there.
First Sergeant (r) george Adamsby COL (R) Orv Butts
First Sergeant (Ret) George Adams
enlisted in the Alabama Army National
Guard in 1983. He completed One Sta-
tion Unit Training (OSUT) in September
of that year, and began his career with the
Military Police. In February 1988, he came
on active duty and was off to his first as-
signment at Fort Lewis, Washington. Over
the next 20 years, he served in a variety of
assignments including SHAPE, Belgium;
Fort Bragg, North Carolina; Fort McClel-
lan, Alabama; Baumholder, Germany; Fort
Rucker, Alabama; Fort Leonard Wood, Mis-
souri and Camp Casey, Korea. His career
culminated with his assignment as First
Sergeant, Charlie Company, 795th Military
Police Battalion.
Upon his retirement in December of
2007, George accepted a position as a
Nonlethal Weapons Subject Matter Expert
with Concurrent Technologies Corporation
(CTC) at their Fort Leonard Wood office.
Since his retirement, George continues to
train Soldiers who conduct Mobile Training
Teams instructing Soldiers on the Army’s
Nonlethal Capabilities Sets. Over the past
two years, he has coordinated the execu-
tion of over 30 MTT’s to both CONUS and
OCONUS locations, training over 1000
Soldiers.
“At retirement, things just kind of fell
into place. I truly feel fortunate to not only
have the opportunity to work with an or-
ganization such as CTC, but to also be able
to work on a daily basis with our Soldiers.
These Soldiers and their families are our
Nation’s greatest asset. Tom Brokaw wrote
about The Greatest Generation, but take a
look at Soldiers of today. We are a Volun-
teer Army. Young men and women watch
the news and understand thoroughly what
is going on in the War on Terrorism. And
yet they continue to go to the recruiter’s
office and enlist in our Military know-
ing they will be deployed! My hat’s off to
these Great Americans. My family and I
truly appreciate your dedication. To those
Soldiers preparing for transition, you will
know when the time is right. Take with you
the values and work ethic that have been
instilled in you during your service. Our
ability to think outside the box in order to
reach mission accomplishment is un-
matched by our civilian counterparts. Take
that with you. “
George and his wife Inga have settled in
and now call the Waynesville/Fort Leonard
Wood area home. In addition to his work
with CTC, George serves as the Treasurer
for the Ozark Chapter of the Military Police
Regimental Association.
MPRA Legacy ProgramsVisit us online or call today to find out how you can help!
CONTACT US TODAY AT 573-329-6772. www.MPRAonline.org
14 | THE DRAGOON Fall 2009 MPRA QUARTERLY www.mpraonline.org | 15
by Andy Watson
Recently, the MP Historian and MP Museum director examined some interesting drawings which are first-generation copies from the US Army Institute of Heraldry*. The drawings are designed very similarly to building ìblueprintsî and demonstrate artistic talent not only in the design but also in the artistsí drafting ability.
The drawings are of Military Police battalion unit crests used for the design of distinguished unit insignias (DUIs) as well as for the unitís Coat of Arms found on the battalion colors. Due to the en-larged scale, details and unique features are easier to discern.
Created during World War II, not all of the designs were accepted for official use. In some cases the designs werenít approved until after the unitís inactivation.
MILITARY POLICE HISTORYMILITARY POLICE HISTORY
World War ii mp battalion Coats of Arms
743rd MP Battalion
Design: U.S. Marshal of the American West late 19-century, complete with badge, pistols, and handlebar mustache.
Motto: “Minute Peace Makers”.
Symbolism: The marshal is actually revealed to be James Butler “Wild Bill” Hickok. He is used to represent the speed and control of the MP unit, originally formed in Kansas.
History: The 743rd MP Battalion was activated on 5 May 1942, at Fort Riley, Kansas. Originally organized as an all African-American unit, the 743rd deployed to Algeria, Tunisia, and Italy. Performing security, traffic control, and guarding prisoners of war, the 743rd would earn a Meritori-ous Unit Citation for its efforts in the Rome-Arno Campaign. The 743rd was inactivated on 7 November 1945, at Camp Marcianise, Italy.
>
721st MP Battalion
Design: Head and gaze of the Statue of Liberty.
Motto: “Vigilance unto Eternity”.
Symbolism: The head of the Statue of Liberty refers to the basic mission of orga-nization and preservation of law and order in a free world. The gaze of the statue echoes the motto of vigilance.
History: The 721st MP Battalion was activated on 23 January 1942, at Fort Meade, Maryland. It was later disbanded on 20 December 1943, at Norfolk, Virginia.
>
735th MP Battalion
Design: Open hand over a fist.
Motto: “Your Choice”.
Symbolism: The open hand symbolizes friendship over the closed fist of force. Echoing the motto, the 735th MPs will react upon “your choice” of behavior.
History: The 735th MP Battalion was constituted on 10 January 1942, and activated on 1 April 1942, both at Fort Benjamin Harrison, Indiana. The 735th was based in the American Midwest until December 1943, when the unit deployed to England. In England, the unit performed mar-shalling duties in support of the Normandy Invasion, as well as providing security and traffic support until the 735th’s departure from England on 12 June 1945. The 735th MP Battalion was inactivated on 13 November 1945, at Fort Custer, Michigan.
>
729th MP Battalion
Design: Egyptian mythological god Thoth marking a tablet. Motto: “All in Order”.
Symbolism: Thoth with the head of an ibis, was the scribe of the Egyptian gods. His recording of information on the tablet alludes to the organization and control of the unit.
History: The 729th MP Battalion was activated at Fort Benjamin Har-rison, Indiana on 1 March 1942. It would then transfer to various postings within Ohio until December of 1944. During this time, the Soldiers of the 729th assisted in flood control in the American Midwest, aided in managing local stockades, and maintained security at various locations to included presidential speeches and transportation. The 729th was inactivated on 8 May 1946, at Camp Atterbury, Indiana. The unit would be re-designated as the 337th MP Battalion on 1 March 1949.
>
*The designs were under the Quarter Master Corps’ Heraldic Section during World War II.
The insignia pin photographs are of DUI’s from the Military Police collection. All are listed in the ASMIC MP catalog as category “E” as later reproductions done from authentic drawings (such as these). There is no 735th MP BN insignia in the MP collection nor in the ASMIC catalog, apparently never being produced.
16 | THE DRAGOON Fall 2009 MPRA QUARTERLY www.mpraonline.org | 17
by CSM (R) Roger Macon
The Military Police Memorial Grove, located at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, has become a focal point for past, present and future Military Police Soldiers and their fami-lies. The grove’s popularity continues to grow. Historically, the grove is known as a place for units and Soldiers to remember those Military Police Soldiers that have served and those who have given the ultimate sacrifice so that all Americans can live on to enjoy their freedom. In years past, the grove was a somber place that was visited infrequently; its primary visitation occurred during the Military Police Memorial Tribute during the annual Regimental week ceremonies. Over the past three years, the grove seems to have grown in importance as a place to experience on Fort Leonard Wood, but what has changed to make this so?
The answer lies in the heart of the grove itself. Several years ago, the national board of the Military Police Regimental Association developed a plan to bring recognition to all MP Soldiers, both past and present, active or retired, fallen and living, by way of the Regimental Walkway. The concept called for recognizing them with bricks bearing their names, quotes and units accolades. Some bricks are engraved with the branch or unit insignia and other special symbols. Most significantly, a star is used which represents those that were killed in action. This special recognition of our fallen embodies the idea that no Soldier would ever be left alone or for-gotten. This is most assuredly the case and many people, here at the home of the Regi-ment, regularly visit the grove to remember and reflect on the sacrifices of our Soldiers.
For all Military Police Soldiers completing training, the grove is a place of new begin-
nings. The grove is the place where they are unofficially recognized by their chain of command with the awarding of the Distinctive Unit Insignia by their unit leaders. The Sol-diers depart the grove under the crossed pistol statue known as “The Gateway to the Regi-ment”. Bystanders may notice the pride and hope in the air as senior leaders go through and congratulate each new member of our Regiment. Some Soldiers cry, some shake uncontrollably with anticipation and uncer-tainty and all glow with self-respect, pride and a sense of accomplishment. During this time a presence exists that many can’t quite understand, but all can feel the impact of the moment and its significance for the future.
When passing by the grove on any given day, most likely onlookers will notice some-one visiting these hallowed grounds. Most guests begin their visit through the crossed pistol entry way followed by a reflective tour around the grove and along the walkway that embodies the legacy of the MP corps. For most, it is an emotional experience as they contemplate the highs and lows of their own personal memories as they visit the wall of unit plaques, pass by a memorial bench, or recognize a familiar name on a brick. Frequently, visitors are captivated in a way that triggers a meditative pause as they relate to the inscription on a brick or monument or the personal memory that they are experi-encing. Sometimes you will see a smile, the shaking of the head, the wiping of a tear from their face. Occasionally a person may wander for hours reliving their own life journey and honoring the memories of the past. Some visitors may go directly to the information kiosk which can help them target a location of interest within the grove. Some will say that the grove is therapeutic yet others will say that it is too painful. Regardless of the emotions experienced, all continue to be drawn to this mystical place time and time again.
My wife, Terri, wrote a poem about this place that we call the Military Police Memorial Grove and I believe it puts it into perspective.
RemembranceAs.you.enter.these.hallowed.groundsStep.lightly.and.with.reverenceListen.closely.to.the.sounds.Reverberating.in.the.silence
.Restless.murmurs.anticipation.of.a.journey......just.begunQuiet.lonely.tears.remember.another.whose......journey.is.forever.doneMemories.not.unlike.a.high.school.reunion......where.a.touch.or.even.a.glance.Revisits.another.time,.another.unit.and.a.face......from.somewhere.in.the.past..Then.just.when.you’re.there.In.another.space.in.time.Sometimes.you.hear.the.marching.and.cadence......of.the.futureSends.a.chill.right.up.your.spine
.. . . –Terri Macon
I have often stated that professional people belong to professional organizations and professional organizations give back to their people. The MPRA is right on track with this philosophy and I thank them for giving me a place to revisit with my memories while visit-ing with our fallen time and time again.
IN THE NEWSIN THE NEWS
by LTC Jesse Galvin
CAMP VICTORY, Iraq –Over 225 Military Police men and women from all over Iraq traveled to Al Faw Palace on Camp Victory, Baghdad, Iraq, on Sept. 27 to attend a Mili-tary Police Regimental dinner honoring the 68th Anniversary of the Military Police Corps and to celebrate the Year of the NCO.
The event was hosted by the 89th Military Police Brigade, Task Force Griffin. Attendees included command teams and members of Task Force 134, Multinational Corps-Iraq Provost Marshal’s Office, the 8th Military Police Brigade, the 705th Military Police Battalion, the 306th Military Police Battalion, the 168th Military Police Battalion, the 192nd Military Police Battalion, the 540th Military Police Battalion, the 22nd Military Police Battalion (CID), the 1-105 Cavalry Squad-ron, 1-128th Infantry Battalion, 1st Cavalry Division Provost Marshal’s Office, TF 14 (Medical), the Joint Interrogation Debriefing Center, and the 1st Cavalry Division Band.
The evening began with a warm welcome from Command Sergeant Major Michael Ashford, 89th Military Police Brigade, who set the tone for the evening in his open-ing remarks by saying, “Relax, sit back and remove yourselves from the pressures that confront you during your day to day battle rhythm, just for a couple of hours, and enjoy a meal and the company of your fellow war-riors in honor of the Military Police Corps Regiment, and the Corps of Non-Commis-sioned Officers.” And away we went--the evening was filled with music, speeches, video clips from our Regimental Command Sergeant Major, RCSM Charles Kirkland and former Regimental Command Sergeants Major, laughter, war stories and more war stories, food, and camaraderie.
Two very special highlights of the evening included the drawings for over 20 fantastic gifts, generously donated by the Military Police Regimental Association, and the spectacular performance of Happy Birthday that followed by our beloved Military Police Regimental March by the 1st Cavalry Divi-sion Band.
Former Regimental Command Sergeant Major, and current Command Sergeant
Major of TF 134, Jeffrey Butler spoke to the audience about the contributions of the NCO in today’s Army and a video was shown containing interviews of past Regimental Command Sergeants Major, who spoke about the significant role of Military Police Non-Commissioned Officers of the past.
The guest Speaker for the evening’s event was Brigadier General David Quantock, current TF 134 Commanding General and past Commandant of the United States Army Military Police School and Chief, Military Police Corps Regiment. He gave a motivat-ing speech that stressed the relevance of the Military Police Corps in the modern Army to close out the evening.
While these events always take a lot of co-ordination and effort in a garrison environ-ment, in a deployed environment, logistics can become a living nightmare. Things that you take for granted such as plates and silverware can become prized acquisitions in theater. The Non-Commissioned Officers of the 89th Military Police Brigade staff worked
diligently to overcome logistical challenges and achieved what seemed impossible to ensure the attendees had an amazing and memorable evening. “The NCOs of this Brigade are all about setting a standard of excellence and that is what they set out to do that evening. “ said Lt. Col. Galvan, 89th Military Police Brigade Deputy Commander for Operations and Intelligence.
The evening ended with many photos taken under the grand rotunda in the Al-Faw Palace. Friends and colleagues from all over the Military Police Corps Regiment lingered under the rotunda for a long while, catching up with each other before walking out into the warm night air and back to their respec-tive battle spaces to continue the mission of providing care and custody with dignity and respect for the detainee population in Iraq, as well as to provide training and assistance to the law enforcement officials of Iraq.
89th mp brigade Hosts mp regimental Celebration in baghdad
Guests gather under the grand rotunda at Al Faw Palace.>
Newly unveiled Pavilion and Kiosk add a personal touch to the MP Memorial Grove.
>
The.Military.Police.Memorial.Grove
“A Walk Down Memory Lane”
Members of C/701 enter Memorial Grove un-der the Harpers Ferry Pistols and participate in a “Rite of Passage Ceremony”.
>
18 | THE DRAGOON Fall 2009
MILITARY POLICE REGIMENTAL ASSOCIATION
Hundreds of people visited Nutter Field
House on Sep 17th and 18th to view the new-
est and best products on the market.
Over 60 vendors from the US and Canada
displayed their products to the Military
Police leadership. It was a tremendous event
and the products seen will without a doubt
save countless lives around the world.
This event in the words of Rick Harne, the
event organizer, has one purpose “to get the
best equipment to the best fighting force in
the world.”
mprA technological Solutions expo
A special thanks to our 2009 sponsors:
Hundreds of visitors took time out of their day to meet with some of the nation’s top company representatives.
>
Vendors were not limited by space as many opted for outdoor displays.>SFC Al Delamarter takes a few minutes to visit the MPRA Booth at the 2009 Tech Show.
> S A W F L Y • B U L L E T A N T • D E S E R T L O C U S T
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2009 WARFIGHTER
Story by Kerstin Mitchell, GUIDON staffPhotography by Mandy Stillwell
Members of the Military Police Corps conduct a regi-mental review on Gammon Field.
The review was part of the week-long celebration of the 68th birthday of the corps.
Other activities during the week included a regimental run, Hall of Fame induction ceremony, memorial tribute to fallen comrades, regimental ball, golf tournament, and of course, the Warfighter Competition
Celebrating 68 Years
SPC Brandon Moe firing the Salute Battery.> MAJ Caroline Horton leading the 795th MP BN.>
2009 Regimental Review Color Guard. >
22 | THE DRAGOON Fall 2009 MPRA QUARTERLY www.mpraonline.org | 23
MPRA QUARTERLY ‘THE DRAGOON’
by Kerstin Mitchell, GUIDON staff
Teams were focused, geared up, and ready for battle during the 13th Military Police Warfighter Challenge, last week.
“This has been the most teams we’ve seen in years,” said regimental Command Sgt. Maj. Charles Kirkland.
The four-day competition consisted of 34 teams engaging in 13 events and cover-ing 60 miles by foot.
It was a close competition between team 11, Cpl. Thomas Lemonds, Spc. Leon-ard Salazar, and Pfc. Sam Meroney, all from the 759th Military Police Battalion, Fort Carson, Colo. and team 3, Staff Sgt. John Atkins, Spc. Arron Ebersole, and Pfc. Kevin Wallace, all from the 92nd Military Police Battalion, Fort Leonard Wood, but in the end Fort Carson earned the title of 2009 Warfighter champions.
Following close behind in third place was team 21, Cpl. Gordon Simonis, Pfc. Matthew Wetzel, and Pfc. John Salinas, all from 289th Military Police Company, Fort Myer, Va.
“The Warfighter Soldiers are highly mo-tivated individuals—the best of the very best,” said Brig. Gen. David Phillips, U.S. Army Military Police School commandant.
In addition to bragging rights, each member of the first place team received prizes totaling $5,000. Second and third place teams won a slew of prizes as well.
The three winning teams will stay at Fort Leonard Wood and participate in regimental week, said Sgt. 1st Class Shon Dodson, Warfighter noncommissioned officer-in-charge.
At the final event of anniversary week, the winning teams were introduced at the MP regimental ball, Sept. 26, said Capt. Simon Allgoewer, regimental ball opera-tions officer.
2009 Warfighter Challenges military police
Military Police working as a Team to move a casualty during the 2009 Warfighter.>
Although most of the 2009 Warfighter Competition occurred on land, all competitors soon realized how water would play a huge role this year.
>
WARFIGHTERCOMPETITION2009
68th Military Police corPs anniversary Celebrating the Year of the NCO
26 | THE DRAGOON Fall 2009 MPRA QUARTERLY www.mpraonline.org | 27
Motorcyclists gather around in preparation for the ride as 1SG(R) Jim Utt delivers the pre-ride safety brief.
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On 12 September 2009 the Veterans Motorcycle Club “Ozarks” sponsored the 4th Annual Regimental “Ride For The Fallen.” Seventy-seven bikes registered for the event and over 100 people participated in the 100-mile ride. The Veterans’ Motorcycle Club donated a check for $636.00 to the Military Police Benevolent Fund. The Benevolent Fund is dedicated to provide financial relief to members and retirees of the MP Corps Regiment and Soldiers and Civilians working in support of the MP Corps Regiment in times of need.
Thanks to all those that supported this great event!
Ride for the Fallen
MPRA QUARTERLY www.mpraonline.org | 29
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WIND.indd 2 8/3/09 2:47 PM
MPRA QUARTERLY www.mpraonline.org | 31
IN THE NEWS
Challenge at Lost LakeArticle submitted by CSM Jeffrey Butler,
Command Senior Enlisted Leader, JTF 134, Detainee Operations
As the sun set over Baghdad, Iraq, on Au-gust 29, 2009, and most units were calling it a day, Joint Task Force 134 was getting ready for a challenge.
The United States Army Military Police Regiment had issued a challenge for Military Police units around the world to complete a 68-mile run in recognition of the 68th anni-versary of the Military Police Corps as a basic branch of the United States Army.
Brig. Gen. David E. Quantock, Command-ing General, JTF 134, provided opening re-marks and encouragement for the challenge ahead. Since JTF 134 is a joint organization, the participants included the Army and all sister service law enforcement personnel such as the Army and Marine Military Police, Navy Master of Arms, and Air Force Security Forces. Also invited to support the effort during the first and last laps of the relay were all of the other branches’ career fields as-signed to the JTF 134.
The prepared course was a 1.6 mile loop around the area known as Lost Lake on Camp Victory. To meet the challenge JTF 134 per-sonnel had to run 43 laps around the course.
The first lap started at about 7:15 p.m., with a plan for one lap every 15 minutes throughout the night. After the first group lap, the next 41 laps were individual legs by MP officers, non-commissioned officers and junior enlisted followed by a final group lap. Leaders from the Headquarters and Head-quarters Company set up a support area with refreshments, games and movies for those participating and supporting the runners throughout the night.
The final lap was completed at 5:50 a.m. the next morning, completing the challenge. The temperature at start time was about 100 degrees and it stayed over 85 degrees for the entire evening.
The challenge presented a great op-portunity for our joint service team to work together and promote fitness. Mission ac-complished! Return with Honor!
Members of Joint Task Force 134 pose for a photo after its 68-mile run in recognition of the 68th anniversary of the Military Police Corps as a basic branch of the U.S. Army. (U.S. Army photo/Air Force Capt. Brad Kimberly)
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Brig. Gen. David E. Quantock addresses members of Joint Task Force 134 prior to the start of a 68-mile run in recognition of the 68th anniversary of the Military Police Corps as a basic branch of the U.S. Army. (U.S. Army photo/Air Force Capt. Brad Kimberly)
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Joint Task Force 134 formation heads out on their 68 mile challenge run in recognition
of the 68th anniversary of the Military Police Corps as a basic branch of the U.S. Army. (U.S.
Army photo/Air Force Capt. Brad Kimberly)
>
32 | THE DRAGOON Fall 2009 MPRA QUARTERLY www.mpraonline.org | 33
BEHIND THE SCENES AT THE MP MUSEUMMPRA QUARTERLY ‘THE DRAGOON’
by Troy Morgan, MP Museum Specialist and Amanda Kamps, MP Museum Intern
The collection of the Military Police Museum at Fort Leonard Wood contains over 500 Distinctive Unit Insignias (DUI) and over 400 Shoulder Sleeve Insignias (SSI). The Museum regularly responds to queries from Veterans, family members, or researchers by providing a photograph of a DUI or SSI.
However, one area in which the col-lection is sorely lacking is theater-made SSIs. Oftentimes, following America’s wars, soldiers would contract with local tailors to produce “custom” SSIs for members of a unit. This practice was most common after World War II and Vietnam, however, examples also exist from the Korean War and a few from World War I.
Even rarer was the use of custom scrolls. These were locally produced then sewn above the soldier’s standard SSI. Most of the time, these scrolls would identify the MP company or battalion the soldier was as-signed to, but in some instances the scrolls provided additional information. Members of the 759th (and later 287th) Military Police Companies’ Horse Platoon wore a “HORSE PLATOON” scroll above their standard SSI. Some members of the 796th Military Police Battalion wore a “RADIO PATROL” scroll
above their unit tab.Also lacking in the collection are pocket
patches. Similar to SSIs, pocket patches were sewn to one of the breast pockets and tended to relate specific information. Sources illustrate photographic evidence of these pocket patches for MP dog han-dlers and crewmen of V100s, however the Museum does not have any pocket patches in its collection.
The MP Museum is seeking to expand its collection of theater-made patches, to both better represent the history of the Corps and to better serve their audience. The MP Museum requests your assistance in expanding its collection of theater-made Military Police SSIs, pocket patches, and custom scrolls. There are many more examples than those pictured in this article. A good rule of thumb is: if in doubt, call the MP Museum. If you are interested in donating a Military Police theater-made SSI, please follow the steps below:
1. If the patch is on a uniform or other object, do not remove it from the object.
2. Provide a photograph of the patch to the MP Museum. Digital photographs should be emailed to [email protected]. If unable to email a digital photograph call the Museum at (573) 596-0604.
theater-made mp patches
‘Radio Patrol’ scroll worn by some members of the 796th Military Police Battalion. (Photo courtesy of Dave Kaufman, ASMIC)
The author would like to thank David Kaufman for his valuable assistance with this article. Mr. Kaufman is a member of the American Society of Military Insignia Collec-tors, commonly known as ASMIC. Founded in 1937 by a small group of enthusiastic col-lectors, it is “home” today to 2,000 dedicated collectors in the United States and foreign nations. The type of insignia covered by this organization includes shoulder sleeve and distinctive unit insignia (patches and DUIs), rank insignia, wings, decorations and awards (medals), elite forces emblems, cap badges, specialty markings, or simply information on heraldry and the symbolism of heraldic devices. For more information visit their website at: www.asmic.org.
A one-piece felt patch incorporating a top and bottom scroll. This patch was worn by the 820th Military Police Company in Germany following World War Two. (Photo courtesy of Dave Kaufman, ASMIC)
A one-piece patch incorporating a top and bottom scroll. This patch was worn by the 64th Military Police Company in France following World War Two. (Photo courtesy of Dave Kaufman, ASMIC)
Approved by Capt. Harold Taylor for local wear, this SSI was made ca. 1946 in Peiping (Bejing), China, when the company was providing security for Peiping HQ Group. (Photo courtesy of Dave Kaufman, ASMIC)
This patch was worn by members of the 287th Military Police Companyís Mounted Platoon. This ceremonial unit was deactivated on March 31, 1958. (Photo courtesy of Dave Kaufman, ASMIC)
An example of a theater-made SSI in the Military Police Museum collection. There are several known variations of this patch worn by members of the 519th Military Police Battalion while stationed in Japan after World War Two. (MP Museum photo)
by Jim Rogers, MP Museum
The MP Museum recently ac-quired a great collection of MP pho-tos from Vietnam. The donor, Paul Erickson, is featured in the upper right and left photos of this page. He served in Vietnam with B Com-pany, 504th MP Battalion. These photos are circa 1965-67 in the Central Highlands where B Com-pany patrolled Route 1 from Nha Trang to Bong Son, Route 19 from Qui Hnon to Pleiku and Route 14 from Pleiku to Kontum. The museum retained high resolu-tion scans for its digital archives and returned to original photos to the donor.
Vietnam memories
34 | THE DRAGOON Fall 2009 MPRA QUARTERLY www.mpraonline.org | 35
IN THE NEWSIN THE NEWS
by CPT Laura Weimer, 701st MP BN, 14th MP BDE
Recruiters are one thing. But bringing 29 young Americans to the home of the Military Police Corps Regiment and exposing them to more facets of the MP Corps than most people see throughout their career is a whole different story. When they met their Drill Sergeants for the first time, the young people knew they were going to be able to leave after one week – it seemed long at first, when the push-ups and overhead arm claps seemed like they’d never end. But the group quickly grew together through team-building, leadership development, gaining apprecia-tion for what our Soldiers do in every facet of the Military Police Corps and supporting branches, pushing and exceeding their pre-set physical and mental limits, instilling the discipline and values that they all longed for, and singing both the Army song and Military Police Corps Regimental March while stand-ing tall at Memorial Grove. And by the end of the week, they looked back with irreplace-able memories from experiences that had passed much too quickly.
The 701st Military Police Battalion (OSUT Training BN), sponsored by the Military Po-lice Regimental Association, and supported by the 14th MP BDE, USAMPS, and the entire Ft. Leonard Wood community, hosted the 4th biannual MP National Law Enforce-ment Explorer Academy (NLEEA) at Ft. Leonard Wood from 11 – 18 July 2009. The National Chapter of MPRA not only sponsors the entire week-long academy, but also con-tributes to college scholarship opportunities in its partnership with the Learning for Life Organization. And after having hosted four academies starting in 2003, the 701st MP BN continues to strive to improve the Academy in its diverse exposure of training events, excitement and challenge for the Explorers, and quality of instruction and coordination. The BN is constantly overshadowed by the success of the years prior, and challenged to be the best Academy in the country, often by the adult advisors from Police Departments, the FBI and Learning for Life, who under-stand the excellent quality of the academy they’d all be privileged to attend. We know this Academy accomplished all of the above.
Competition to get into the Army Academy
The lucky 29 Explorers competed with over 500 candidates ages 14 – 21 from across the country for a spot in one of five National Law Enforcement Academies held every two years. Serving alongside the Federal Bureau of Investigations (FBI), Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), US Secret Service, and the US Marshals, the US Army similarly focuses their academy on law enforcement training exposure and explains a variety of career opportunities. The Army acad-emy, however, serves as an unbeatable and unmatched experience for these Explorers, mostly unaware of the rigors, benefits, inspi-ration, and camaraderie of the US Military. One Explorer who had recently completed another one of the academies said the most drastic and apparent differences were the structure and well-defined organization of the academy, the discipline instilled in the Explorers, and the wide variety of hands-on training opportunities. While very few of the 29 Explorers selected the Army as their top choice, or even one of their top three prefer-ences of academies, like past academy trends have shown, none of them left disappointed in where they were lucky enough to end up.
The Explorer’s BackgroundAll of these teenagers and young adults,
as part of the Explorer Program under the Learning for Life Organization, partner with their hometown police or fire departments, border patrols, and sometimes components of national-level law enforcement agencies. The worksite-based program’s goal is to build confidence, maturity, ethical decision-making, and responsibility as adults. They pick up basic LE tactics, leadership lessons, selfless service, and dedication to their com-munities. All of the Explorers were and are hungry for further development, leadership challenges, and to gain inspiration to strive for the best they can be and contribute the most to their community and nation.
A Full Week of TrainingSpending as little time in the classroom as
possible, the Explorers spent hours on ranges, where they fired a variety of live weapons (9mm pistol, 12-gauge shotgun, and M11 and MP5 9mm sub-machine guns), received instruction and got hands-on familiarization with most of the individual and crew-served weapons in the MP arsenal (M16, M203, M249, M240B, M2 .50 cal, MK19, and AT4), fired all of them in the tactical desert scenario
Warrior police host national explorers at Ft. Leonard Wood
Engagement Skills Trainer (EST) and the M9 pistol Law Enforcement (LE) shoot/don’t shoot scenarios. They learned about and conducted room-clearing scenarios with ‘si-munitions’ at the Special Reaction Team (SRT) training facility with instructors from the Spe-cial Tactics Training Division (STTD). Military Working Dogs (MWD) gave demonstrations of their support to the MP LE mission and showed a layout of their various equipment.
A Combat Support MP Squad from the 512th MP CO exposed the group to their combat capabilities—both with a descrip-tion of each of the crewman’s responsibilities throughout combat missions, and with their full array of personal equipment and weap-ons, and the squad’s vehicles, radios, crew-served weapons, and other equipment. They received instruction on prisoner handling by the 31E (Corrections Specialist) Commit-tee, detainee processing, and techniques for Unarmed Self Defense, as well as on tech-niques for collecting evidence at a crime scene such as finger printing and photographing. The Explorers also received lots of physical training on three different obstacle courses (teamwork development course, individual confidence course, and physical endurance course), learning and conducting first aid buddy carries, and conducting Army physical training exercises. Of course they had a lot of push-ups throughout the week.
First Hand AccountsWhile the four drill sergeants and OIC
shared their wealth of knowledge and ex-periences with the Explorers, the addition of over 15 guest speakers was unique and irreplaceable. They shared many of their DFAC meals with senior Military Police lead-ers, including CW5 TL Williams, the current MP Regimental Warrant Officer, who shared much of her CID background, and COL Gretchen Cadwallader, the current Director of Training at the MP Schoolhouse and her husband, retired MP LTC Steve Herold, who shared similarities and differences from his time in the MP Corps, and now serving in the civilian law enforcement. Also MAJ Mark John and CPT Simon Allgoewer, our Brit-ish and German MP officers working in the MP Schoolhouse, compared and contrasted their homeland military and police corps, as well as answered anything about loyalty to the Queen in the Royal British Military, and about the required military service in the German Bundeswehr. They were also visited by the Chief of Military Litigation for the Ft. Leonard Wood JAG Office, CPT Stacee Blackburn, who described the close working relationship between the MP and legal com-
ponents of the military, and shared the edu-cation process that brought her to being a JAG officer in the Army. Lastly, the Explorers were met by one of the local Army Recruit-ers, who also happened to be an MP, who provided them with the latest requirements, trends, timelines, and benefits for enlist-ing in the Army. By the end of the week, the interest was definitely stirring throughout the room, having seen the endless possibili-ties for development, education, leadership, challenge, and service within the MP Corps and other branches of the Army. Knowing that the minimum age for local and federal law enforcement officials is 21, that sets the opportunity for a 3-4 year enlistment to gain discipline and experience prior to applying to the civilian law enforcement departments.
Military InspirationIn addition to the many training events
throughout the week, the drill sergeants also introduced the Explorers to the Army Values,catering to the mental and emotional side of their inspiration for joining and stay-ing in the Army. This by far had one of the strongest and most lasting impacts on the Explorers. They came to the Academy with a sense of selfless service with their dedi-cation to their local law enforcement and gave them something to relate to. But their pride and appreciation were only magni-fied upon hearing deployment and military career stories from their Drill Sergeants, class instructors, MWD handlers and CS MP Squad Soldiers, and MP leaders through the BN, BDE, and MP School. The Explorers all attended the MP One Station Unit Training (OSUT) Graduation for D /787 MP BN on Thursday morning, which is truly a motiva-
tion for anyone with a heart, to see 200 new MP Soldiers and all of their families who are the most proud they have ever been. The recitation of the Soldier’s Creed just locked in what the Explorers had been taught all week: “I serve the people of the United States and live the Army Values…I am disciplined, physically and mentally tough…I am a guardian of freedom and the American way of life. I am an American Soldier.”
Memorial Grove Graduation and Ending Banquet
On the last day of the week, the gradua-tion ceremony, modeled after an OSUT Rites of Passage, each Explorer was presented with a certificate of completion, and a pewter MP Regimental Crest, while standing on the hallowed ground of the MP Memorial Grove. SGM Riki Hawk, himself a former Explorer and now the SGM of DPO, USAMPS, shared his life journey that started with participa-tion in the Explorer Program, and progressed through his military career. The Explorers had studied the words and tunes of the MP Regimental March and the Army Song all week, and sung them proudly amongst many active duty and retired leaders throughout the MP Community. That evening, they at-tended a banquet in their honor, with mem-bers of the National and Ozark Chapters of MPRA, USAMPS, the 14th MP BDE, and the 701st MP BN. They heard from COL An-thony Zabek on the integration of LE agen-cies all across the Government – between local and federal agencies, the departments
Continued on page 36
36 | THE DRAGOON Fall 2009 MPRA QUARTERLY www.mpraonline.org | 37
MILITARY POLICE HISTORYIN THE NEWS
by Staff Sgt. Jim Greenhill, National Guard Bureau
WASHINGTON (Oct. 6, 2009)—Leader-ship and the Army standards are key ele-ments of success for individual Soldiers, a Distinguished Service Cross recipient said during a visit here last week.
“The standards that are given by the Army - whether it be our leadership values, our equipment we use or the training we employ - are so critical,” said Sgt. 1st Class Timothy Nein of the Kentucky Army National Guard during a visit to the As-sociation of the United States Army Annual Meeting here.
“These aren’t things that were just thought up [on the] spur of the moment; these are things that men have sweat blood for to develop so that we have better tactics, techniques and procedures than any other country,” he said adding, “and because of that we’re able to adapt on the battlefield more readily and quickly than any other force in the world.”
At the invitation of U.S. Army Forces Command, Nein stopped by the Army’s Sergeants Corner to brief an audience on the events of March 20, 2005, when he was a squad leader with Kentucky’s 617th Military Police Company. The convoy he was riding in was ambushed near the town of Salman Pak, south of Baghdad, Iraq.
Under heavy fire, Nein and his squad put themselves and their vehicles between the insurgents and the convoy. Nein and Army National Guard Sgt. Leigh Ann Hester led a counterattack that saw 27 insurgents killed, seven captured and no deaths in their unit. Two Soldiers were wounded.
Nein was awarded a Silver Star Medal that was upgraded to the Distinguished Service Cross. Only the Medal of Honor trumps the DSC among awards for valor in battle. Nein was the first member of the Guard to receive the award since the Global War on Terrorism started in 2001. Hester also received the Silver Star, becoming the first woman to receive the award for direct combat action.
Nein, who returned from his third Iraq deployment and fourth overseas tour this decade in February, outlined three ingredi-ents to Soldier success: The importance of the Army standards, learning from mentors and leading and mentoring other Soldiers.
The ambush that resulted in Nein’s DSC reinforced these ingredients, he said.
“More than anything, it showed me ... how important the standards are that the Army teaches and how, by using those standards, we can be successful each and every day, either on the battlefield or just in the office,” Nein said. “Knowing our job, knowing our equipment and knowing what we’re supposed to do, leading Soldiers and mentoring Soldiers - how important that
comes to play on the battlefield.” Those leadership skills are, in turn,
learned from mentors, Nein said. “I’ve had the absolute honor, being a
lucky Soldier, to have some really great lead-ers,” Nein said.
Those leaders gave Nein his foundation of understanding what the Army is about, what right looks like, the Army Values, the Warrior Ethos and the Soldier’s Creed, Nein said - tools he passes along to others.
Nein is currently serving with the 198th Military Police Battalion as an operations NCO helping to prepare Soldiers for future deployments.
Year.of.the.NCO:
Distinguished Service Cross recipient outlines keys to success
Sgt. 1st Class Timothy Nein, who has deployed to Iraq three times, serves with the Kentucky National Guard’s 223rd Military Police Company, at Camp Taji, Iraq. Nein was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross for his actions as a squad leader with the 617th Military Police Company during an ambush on March 20, 2005. Photo by Staff Sgt. Jim Greenhill.
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Since 1775, the Army has set apart its NCOs from other enlisted Soldiers by distinctive insignia of grade.
With more than 200 years of service, the U.S. Armys Noncommissioned Officer Corps has distinguished itself as the worlds most accomplished group of military profession-als. Historical and daily accounts of life as an NCO are exemplified by acts of courage, and a dedication and a willingness to do whatever it takes to complete the mission. NCOs have been celebrated for decorated service in military events ranging from Valley Forge to Gettysburg, to charges on Omaha Beach and battles along the Ho Chi Minh Trail, to current conflicts in Afghanistan and Iraq.
In recognition of their commitment to service and willingness to make great sacrifices on behalf of our Nation, Secretary of the Army established 2009 as Year of the NCO.
Throughout 2009, the Army honors NCOs through initiatives and events that:
• Enhance awareness and public under-standing of the roles and responsibilities of todays NCO.
• Enhance and accelerate the development of NCOs through education, fitness, and leader-ship development initiatives.
We invite you to join the celebration of one of Americas greatest assets, the NCO Corps, the backbone of the American Army.
The.Army.NCO.Corps:
Building on Strong Traditions
of emergency services, and others, which plays an important role in the combina-tion and strengthening of efforts in a team fight. Sharing the personal interaction time with these guests and their family members showed them our dedication to families in the military, as well as recognizing some of the stand-out Explorers of the week.
Explorers as Future SoldiersWhile we’re keeping track of how many
of our Explorers follow their short introduc-tion to the MP Corps with the commitment to a lifetime of service to their nation, we had one Explorer who was already scheduled to start MP OSUT (Basic Training and AIT) when she came to the Academy, and she did so just nine days after the end of our week. She recently qualified as expert on the M16 rifle, and is on track to graduate as a Military Police Soldier in mid-December 2009. There are murmurings on Facebook of several other Soldiers applying for entrance to the United States Military Academy at West Point, as well as enlisting on active duty and in the National Guard to serve with their local units.
ConclusionWhile this Academy was designed to ex-
pose these Explorers to the many capabilities and career opportunities of the Military Po-lice, including but not limited to law enforce-ment, the inspiration was two-fold, and the
impact is much more widespread than we can imagine. The cadre saw the best of the best of our nation’s youth – with initiative, motivation, selfless service, and a sense of duty to the people of this nation. They didn’t get any college tuition, medical benefits, or travel opportunities (except to FLW) for this Academy. But they will take back, to their friends and families across the country, the appreciation for what our Soldiers do every day – both in harm’s way, and in the train-
ing environment. We have gained another 29 supporters of our American Soldiers, and that group is capable of doing just about anything they set their minds to do.
Learn more about Learning For Life and the Explorer Program at http://www.learningforlife.org.
All pictures taken by Mike Curtis, Ft. Leon-ard Wood Photo Studio.
Continued from page 35
38 | THE DRAGOON Fall 2009 MPRA QUARTERLY www.mpraonline.org | 39
SCHOFIELD BARRACKS, Hawaii (Sept. 11, 2009) - After four days of fierce compe-tition, a Hawaii-based working dog team outscored the competition and was named “Top Dog” during the 2009 Hawaiian Islands Working Dog Competition Sept. 8 through 11 at Schofield Barracks, Hawaii.
Staff Sgt. Marcus Bates and his working dog, Bennie, 13th Military Police Detach-ment, 728th MP Battalion, had the best overall performance among all the working dog teams and took home the top trophy.
Approximately 30 teams from the Army, Air Force, Marines, Honolulu Police Department (HPD) and the Transporta-tion Security Administration all gathered early in the week for a chance at the title of “Top Dog”. During the competition, the dogs detected narcotics in a warehouse, ran through obstacle courses, and competed in a hardest-hitting dog competition to take down hostile personnel.
“It’s important for them [Soldiers] to learn things from the scenarios they are given,” McPeak said. “Many of the organiza-tions here are providing valuable advice and tips for the Army handlers, which will make this competition better for years to come and improve on upon all the services’ train-ing procedures on the island.”
The last time a military working dog competed in a local competition in Hawaii was back in 2001. Since the ‘War on Terror’ began, Hawaii-based military working dogs have had little time to compete due to being deployed across the globe with their dog handlers. Now that the deployment cycles have become routine and commonplace, military police Soldiers are back to refining their training opportunities and giving their dogs the chance to showcase their skills.
Sgt. 1st Class Michael McPeak, kennel master, 13th MP Det., 728th Military Po-lice Battalion, and organizer of the event, said after taking over his position, he found numerous documents and photos from the last competition and wanted to have one again.
“There are many reasons to have an event like this,” he said. “The biggest thing reason we wanted to have this competition was not just to compete, but to also get all the different organizations and services together. You can start exchanging training ideas and possibly work out things for fu-ture training support through these events.”
Sgt. Nicholas Briggs, 13th MP Det.,
728th MP Bn., who competed in the nar-cotics detection, said the competition was a good opportunity to show the public his team’s skill.
“These competitions are good because it brings out the camaraderie between the dog handlers who work real hard and rarely have a chance to show their ability,” Briggs said. “This allows other agencies like the Marines, HPD, and the (Transportation Se-curity Administration) see how we do things differently. It’s not just about to see who’s the ‘Top Dog,’ but to see the different ways things can be done.”
He said the process of training is not the same for each dog.
“Techniques change constantly,” Briggs said. “If we have a problem with a dog, we may see or hear of a different way from someone else out here, which we can try and possibly improve our methods.”
Although many organizations were competing, Briggs and the rest of the Army teams saw fierce competition from the Ha-
waiian Police Department dog team. “The HPD guys seemed pretty spot on
from training with their dogs for five or six years,” he said. “They deal with a lot of high quantity drug busts, which makes them pretty good at detection. It’s all in good fun though; you just take away what you can from every handler you meet.”
Toward the end of the competition, rival competitors and fellow teammates sat side-by-side cheering on the dogs and handlers. Despite being from different branches of services and backgrounds, Briggs and his fellow competitors agreed on one thing, a dog truly is man’s best friend.
“You go to work and are having a bad day, you leave it outside the kennel because there is someone who waits on you every day to take him out, play with him, and just go train,” he said. “The dog is there for you and knows when you are having a bad day much like any friend.”
IN THE NEWSIN THE NEWS
by Kirsten Mitchell, Guidon Staff
Law enforcement and military equipment distributors filled Nutter Field House, last week, during the three-day 2009 Military Po-lice Anniversary and Regimental Conference Technological Solutions.
Dozens of vendors displayed a wide va-riety of personal protection equipment and law enforcement tools. Many of the vendors were new to the event, officials said.
“Of the 62 vendors, 18 are brand new and have never been to Fort Leonard Wood before,” said Rick Harne, Military Police Regimental Association, executive director. “The main purpose is to get the products into the eyes, ears, and hands of the Military Police Corps, so that down the road it will save lives. The products these vendors bring to the table do that.”
The MPRA organizes the annual show and uses proceeds to fund charities for military
police and their families. “We have given out 48 scholarships to MP
spouses and children over the last two years. The money goes into our benevolent fund, from which we have given out nearly $20,000 to MPs that are in financial trouble, or it goes into one of our other legacy programs,” said Tony McGee, MPRA president.
For close to a decade, MPs have held the technology conference on post.
“This is our ninth year of doing this at Fort Leonard Wood, and we did it at Fort McClellan before that; this is probably the biggest that we have had,” McGee said. “We have all of our senior leaders from around the MP corps and from around the world here at Fort Leonard Wood, so it gives them a chance to advertise their product to the MP Corps. Some of these leaders will see these products and see if they need it.”
The tech conference brings amazing trends into the public spotlight, McGee said.
“Before I ever saw the Segway out in the public, I saw it at one of these venues. Before the Taser became real popular with the police, they were here demonstrating it on Soldiers,” McGee said.
One of the highlights of the conference was the hologram map, which is already in use overseas. Holograms give troops on the ground a three-dimensional view of terrain.
“The holographic map is crazy; it’s the most interesting thing I saw here,” said Sgt. Lindell McCree, 463rd Military Police Com-pany.
McCree also saw some very practical gear, he said.
“We just came back from a 15-month deployment, and we were in MRAPs and HUMVEEs for extended periods of time. It would have been nice to have some of the seat and helmet pads on display here. It’s good that they’re coming out now,” McCree said.
mp tech Conference Displays Latest Warfighter gear
Keeping the Regiment Army Strong
The Military Police Regimental Association Benevolent Fund is dedicated to provide financial relief to members and retirees of the Military Police Corps Regiment and Soldiers
or civilians working in support of the Military Police Corps Regiment in times of need.
For information or questions on how to request relief or to donate to the fund please contact Rick Harne 573-329-6772 or email [email protected].
bennie Wins “top Dog” Competition
Staff Sgt. Marcus Bates and his partner, Bennie, were named “Top Dog” by outscoring the competition at the 2009 Hawaiian Islands Working Dog Competition, Sept. 8 - 11. The working dog team is assigned to the 13th Military Police Detachment, 728th Military Police Battalion, Schofield Barracks, Hawaii. Photo courtesy of Sgt. Ricardo Branch, 8th TSC PAO.
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40 | THE DRAGOON Fall 2009
Submitted by Steven Yamashita
The Provost Marshal General of the Army hosted a Military Police Wreath Laying and Remembrance Ceremony at the Arlington National Cemetery on 9 October 2009, to honor Military Police Soldiers who have been killed in action. BG Rod Johnson, CSM Freddie Brock, and CSM (Ret) Mark Farley placed a wreath, dedicated to “All Military Police Soldiers” at the Tomb of the Unknowns.
Immediately following, the Remem-brance Ceremony and wreath laying at the Military Police Memorial commenced. CSM (Ret) Mark Farley was introduced by CSM Freddie Brock. CSM Farley provided inspirational remarks to celebrate their lives, their courage, their valor, and their willingness to serve. SSG Scott Lichtsinn of the 289th Military Police Company, repre-senting all Military Police Soldiers, assisted the official party in placing a wreath at the memorial.
This annual ceremony began with the dedication of the Military Police memorial
plaque at Arlington National Cemetery on 2 October 2003.
This year, the names of 17 Military Police
Soldiers, to include Soldiers performing MP related functions, were read to honor their service and sacrifice.
military police Wreath Laying and remembrance Ceremony
AWARDS AND RECOGNITION
For details on dedicating trees or benches please call 573.329.6772.
benchesCustomized.granite.benches.offer.places.for.reflection.along.the.Walkway.and.throughout.the.Grove ..Perfect.project.for.class,.group,.chapter.or.association .
Prices.start.at.$1000 .00 .
bricksPurchase.a.personalized.brick ....Special.groupings.available.for.squads,.platoons,.companies,.classes,.chapters.&.associations ..
Bricks.start.at.$50 .00.for.a.4”x8”.brick ..A.8”x8”.brick.is.also.available ...For.more.information,.contact.the.MPRA.at.573-329-6772.or.www .mpraonline .org .
treesSponsor.a.tree.in.Memorial.Grove ..Along.with.your.tree.there.will.be.a.6.inch.x.8.inch.bronze.plaque.with.the.name.of.an.individual.or.group .
•.Northern.Red.Oak.•.White.Ash.•.Sugar.Maple
Prices.start.at.$750 .00 .
Commemorate your serviceHonor a fallen comradeRemember a friendGlorify a classRecognize a unit’s accomplishments
H
H
H
H
H
TributeA Lasting...to the men and women of the Military Police
Corps Regiment past, present and future.
Contact.Info:
Military.Police.Regimental.Association.
573.329.6772mpraonline .org
Bricks starting at $50!
Honor Service!
42 | THE DRAGOON Fall 2009 MPRA QUARTERLY www.mpraonline.org | 43
Advancia Corporation573-336-8312Steve.Heroldwww .advancia .com
AeroVironment, Inc. [p ..45]805-581-2187Stephanie.Foster.www .avinc .com
BAE Systems573-329-8531Perry.Robertswww .baesystems .com
Combined Systems, Inc.724-932-2177Bobbie.Jo.Buchholzwww .less-lethal .com
Concurrent Technologies Corp.573-329-8557Roger.Gunterwww .ctc .com.
Creative Building Products [p ..27]260-459-0929J .C ..Brownwww .soacorp .com
DRASH (DHS Systems, LLC)251-625-0677John.Aikin.www .drash .com
Fort Wood Hotels by Ehrhardt Properties, LLCOwners.of.Comfort.Inn,.Hampton.Inn,.Fairfield.Inn,.Candlewood.Suites,.Mainstay.Suites573-451-2050..Rick.Morriswww .fortwoodhotels .com
First-Light USA [p ..4]877-454-4450..Jeremy.Rosswww .first-light-usa .com
GALLS [p ..20]1-888-831-9824David.Kingwww .galls .com
Garrett Container [p ..23]301-746-8970..Don.Morin.www .garrettcontainer .com
Harley-Davidson Motor Company414-343-8603..Misty.Oelhafenwww .harley-davidson .com
Heckler & Koch Defense, Inc.703-450-1900.x238..Wayne.Weberwww .hk-usa .com
High Tech Crime Institute Inc813-343-0766Amanda.Sayersamanda@gohtci .com
Kipper Tool Company800-295-9595..Bill.Deringerwww .kippertool .com
Lynn Peavey Company [p ..30]913-495-6660..Dee.Hastingswww .peaveycorp .com
MagnumSpike [p ..2]888-667-9494..Adi.Dhondy.www .magnumspike .com
Peterson Group636-434-1515..Phil.Petersonwww .petersong .com.
Polaris Industries931-980-8898..Mike.Cooneywww .polarisdefense .com.
Potomac Field Gear276-494-2956..Patrick.Schadowww .potomacfieldgear .com
Restraints Inc404-271-8879James.SmithJCSmithinc@aol .com
Safariland904-741-1765Erin.Skaffwww .baesystems .com.
NATIONAL
SUPPORTING FIRM MEMBERSMILITARY POLICE REGIMENTAL ASSOCIATION
American Awards, Inc.573-336-7616Darlene.Palmer.Jones Investment Group573-336-8328Merle.Jones
Mid-Missouri Motors573-232-1649Ken.Harrisonwww .midmissourimotors .com
Scotts Printing Inc573-364-1616Davis.Wilsonwww .scottsprintinginc .com.Splash Designs573-368-2673..Quintin.Wallis.
Supporting Firm Members >
>
LOCAL
>
Thanks to All of Our Supporters
Featured Supporting Firm Member
The.Military.Police.Regimental.Association.would.like.to.thank.Mid-Missouri.Motors.for.their.continued.support.and.dedication ..Each.September,.MPRA.invites.our.Gold.Star.Families.to.Fort.Leonard.Wood.as.our.guests.to.attend.the.Memorial.Tribute.and.Dedication.ceremonies ..Mr ..Ken.Harrison.of.Mid-Missouri.Motors.commits.to.this.cause.each.year.by.donating.vehicles.to.ensure.our.invited.families.are.taken.care.of.while.they.visit.the.Fort.Leonard.Wood.ceremonies ...
The.MPRA.is.extremely.thankful.to.Mr ..Harrison.and.the.staff.of.Mid-Missouri.Motors.for.all.they.do.each.and.every.day.!
For more information on becoming a Supporting Firm Member, contact Rick Harne at 573-329-6772 and visit us online at www.mpraonline.org.
Tactical & Survival Specialties540-434-8974..Kim.Wetzel.www .tacsurv .com
Team One Network540-437-7277John.T ..Meyerwww .teamonenetwork .com.
Zebra Imaging512-583-1379.Amy.Gawlik.www .zebraimaging .com
Z-Bolt Laser Systems503-867-1617.John.Meuller.www .z-bolt .com
>
44 | THE DRAGOON Fall 2009 MPRA QUARTERLY www.mpraonline.org | 45
MPRAonline.org
Become a memBer!For more information contact Rick Harne at 573-329-6772 [email protected]
VISIT MPRAONLINE.ORG TO:
4 OrderyourMPRWBricks
4 VisitourOnlinePhotoGallery
4 BecomeaMPRAMember
4 GetlinkstoourGiftShop,Career Center,CorporateSponsors&More
4 FindyourlocalMPRAChapter
4 LearnmoreabouttheMPRAhistory andhappenings
4 ViewtheMPRA'TheDragoon'
C
M
Y
CM
MY
CY
CMY
K
AV_Military_Police _Tech.eps 1 9/3/09 3:34 PM
The.new.MPRA.website.is.our.most.recent.change.as.we.move.nearer.to.2010 ...Our.goal.each.and.every.day.is.to.ensure.our.Soldiers,.families,.and.sponsors.are.up-to-date.with.what’s.happening.in.the.MPRA ...
In.addition.to.the.updated.look,.we.are.also.on.Twitter.(mpraonline)—where.you’ll.find..more.great.information ...It’s.very.exciting.to.be.a.part.of.the.MPRA.and.as.we.continue..
to.move.forward.we.look.forward.to.hearing.from.you ...Tell us your story!
MPRAonline.org
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800.705.1292 ö uopxmilitary.com
University of knowledge is a powerful thing
AY4021_AD:AY4005_AD 12/11/07 11:47 AM Page 1
Respect
Soldier
Loyalty
COURAGEHONOR
Sacrifice
Commitment
MILITARY POLICE REGIMENTAL ASSOCIATION
tApSACTIVE DUTY
PFC.Brandon.A ..Owens,.118th.MP.Co,.Fort.Bragg,.NC;.KIA.02-OCT-09.Afghanistan
PFC.Zachary.T ..Myers,.545th.MP.Co,.Fort.Richardson,.Alaska;.KIA.08-Sep-09.Afghanistan
PFC.Thomas.F ..Lyons,.545th.MP.Co,.Fort.Richardson,.Alaska;.KIA.08-Sep-09.Afghanistan
SSG.Shannon.M ..Smith,.545th.MP.Co,.Fort.Richardson,.Alaska;.KIA.08-Sep-09.Afghanistan
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PAIDRolla, MO
Permit No. 2
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Military Police Regimental AssociationP.O.Box2182FortLeonardWood,MO65473