How to Become a Military Police?
The Military Police (MP) is an integral part of the armed forces, responsible for maintaining order and discipline within the ranks. As a Military Policeman, you will have the opportunity to serve in a variety of roles, from law enforcement to administrative tasks. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a Military Police, here is a step-by-step guide to help you get started.
Basic Requirements
Before we dive into the process of becoming a Military Police, here are the basic requirements:
- Age: Must be between 17 and 35 years old
- Citizenship: Must be a United States citizen
- Education: Must have a high school diploma or equivalent
- Physical Requirements: Must meet the Military’s physical fitness standards
Enlistment
To become a Military Policeman, you will need to enlist in the US Army, US Navy, US Air Force, US Marine Corps, or the US Coast Guard. You can do this by speaking with a recruiter or enrolling in the Military Enlistment Process online. Here are the basic enlistment steps:
| Step | What to Do |
|---|---|
| 1 | Meet with a recruiter to discuss the Military Police career |
| 2 | Take a physical fitness test (APFT) |
| 3 | Take an entrance exam (ASVAB) |
| 4 | Complete a background investigation |
| 5 | Sign a contract and commit to serving in the Military |
Basic Training and Advanced Individual Training (AIT)
After enlisting, you will attend Basic Combat Training (Boot Camp), which lasts approximately 10 weeks. During this time, you will learn basic military skills, such as first aid, marksmanship, and physical fitness.
AIT is a separate training program that will provide you with specialized skills training as a Military Policeman. This training typically lasts 14-18 weeks and covers topics such as:
- Law enforcement techniques
- Patrol procedures
- First aid and medical response
- Defensive driving
- Crowd control techniques
Job Duties
As a Military Police, your job duties may include:
- Conducting patrols and responding to incidents
- Providing security for personnel and equipment
- Conducting investigations and enforcing laws and regulations
- Providing support to military justice proceedings
- Conducting crowd control and riot prevention
Promotion
To advance in your career as a Military Police, you will need to focus on your skills, attend training courses, and promote within the ranks. Here are the typical promotion opportunities:
| Rank | Responsibilities |
|---|---|
| Private (PVT) | Basic Soldier duties, including MP skills training |
| Private First Class (PFC) | Patrol duties, crowd control, and security escort |
| Specialist/Corporal (SPC/CPL) | Supervisor of junior personnel, more complex investigations |
| Sergeant (SGT) | Team leader, conducts detailed investigations, and supervises personnel |
| Staff Sergeant (SSG) | Platoon sergeant, advises on law enforcement procedures, and conducts training |
Conclusion
Becoming a Military Police requires meeting basic requirements, enlisting in the Military, and completing Basic Training and AIT. As a Military Policeman, you will have the opportunity to serve in a variety of roles, from law enforcement to administrative tasks. By following the steps outlined above, you can start your career as a Military Police and serve your country with honor and distinction.
Important Notes
- Medical Requirements: Military Police Officers must meet specific medical standards, including vision, hearing, and physical fitness standards.
- Education Opportunities: Military Police Officers are eligible for education benefits and can pursue higher education or specialized training.
- Job Security: Military Police Officers have job security as they are essential to military operations and can expect career advancement opportunities.
By choosing a career as a Military Police, you will not only serve your country, but also have the opportunity to develop valuable skills and advance in your career.
