Duties of Military Police in Army

Hey, I've been seriously considering signing up for the army, specifically the Military Police. What duties and responsibilities would I have to handle here? Is it a good choice for someone straight out of high school?

Joining the Military Police (MP) could indeed be an interesting choice after high school, and it will certainly offer you a unique experience compared to more traditional paths. Here's a brief breakdown of what you can expect as an MP.

The Military Police in the U.S. Army are responsible for handling various law enforcement duties on Army installations, very similar to civilian police. Their job includes - enforcing military laws and regulations, conducting patrols and providing security, responding to emergencies and crime scenes, apprehending and detaining suspects, collecting evidence, and helping to control traffic and prevent crime.

One of the unique aspects of being an MP is that you get the chance to perform both combat and civilian law enforcement. Combat operations might involve managing prisoners of war, conducting convoy security, and area security operations during conflicts. In stateside assignments or during peacekeeping missions, duties can closely resemble civilian police work, like investigating crimes on military bases or managing traffic.

In terms of making the jump right from high school, it is certainly possible, but remember that it's a significant commitment and not a decision to be taken lightly. It's important to understand that while the Military Police is a profession within the military, it's not all about crime prevention and solving; it also involves a great deal of military protocol and discipline.

Physical fitness is a must, and you'll need to attend basic training, followed by the Military Police training where you'll learn military laws, regulations, and gain other necessary skills.

Many find that going into the Military Police has been beneficial, especially those who desire to continue in law enforcement or security fields after their military service. It provides valuable discipline, experience, and training, while also offering opportunities for further education.

Lastly, remember that such a decision should always be made with a considerable amount of research and understanding of what lies ahead. Discuss it with your family and seek advice from those who have experience in the Military Police or similar positions. You might also want to speak to a recruiter who can give you a deeper understanding of what to expect.