What Does an Army Police Career Entail?
Many people who choose to venture into careers on criminology and criminal justice do so because they are looking to fulfill their love for helping others. It also presents an excellent opportunity for training, advancement opportunities, and career stability. One of the best ways to achieve all of these factors is by serving as an Army MP.
Job Functions and Work Environment of the Army Military Police
Military police take the roles of both peacekeepers and soldiers. Therefore, their job entails more responsibilities and duties than their civilian counterparts, making it more complicated.
Military police are charged with providing security services to both military bases and the world in general. They also investigate minor crimes and conduct other law enforcement functions. They can make arrests, enforce martial law, and perform patrol duties.
Military police may also be called upon to serve in battle situations overseas. When they are deployed in such bases, they can assist in security details and dignitary protection, providing battlefield support, and securing camps and outposts. They can also perform police functions in the affected areas, and help the local forces in maintaining law and order as the war continues.
While in training, military police are also equipped with skills on how to serve as corrections officers. Therefore, they can be called upon to maintain security and order in prisons, detention centers, and Briggs set up by the armed forces around the world. Additionally, they take the responsibility of detaining the enemy forces in times of war.
Military police also play an essential role in rebuilding war-torn areas. They train the local forces on how to maintain law and order after the severe circumstances. They are a vital component of the mission of the military and are involved in nearly all aspects of their activities.
Military Police vs. Department of Defense Police
Both the military police and Defense officers perform functions similar to those of their counterparts in conventional police departments by providing base security. They both investigate traffic crashes and minor crimes.
However, unlike DoD officers, military police have expanded roles and responsibilities. They are subjected to overseas deployment and work closely with the criminal investigative arm in their branch. Serving as a military police officer is, therefore, an excellent jump-off point for an investigative career.
Education and Skill Requirements
To qualify as a military police officer, you must be over 18 years old. Additionally, you have to be commissioned or enlisted in one of the four branches of the US military. You are also required to receive a security clearance, which requires background investigation and is confidential. To be accepted into training, the prospective military police officers must not have a history of drug use or past criminal record.
Training
Military police officers receive extensive training and instruction on law enforcement tactics and techniques after completing their fundamental training. Once they have completed their training, they are either deployed to any military base in the world or assigned to a military police unit. Some of the skills that military police learn include;
- Crowd and traffic control
- Civil/military laws and jurisdiction
- Investigating and evidence collection
- Use of firearms and necessary warrior skills
- Arrest of suspects
Work and Continued Education
A person who serves as a military police officer may be presented with additional training and promotion opportunities. Individuals who join the forces without a college degree can earn one through the GI Bill. Additionally, some of the work and training that they take part in while in service can count as prerequisites in some colleges. Those who wish to continue serving in law enforcement after leaving the military can pursue a degree in criminal justice or forensics.
Salary and Career Info
Like any other department in the armed forces, the salary that one earns in the military police is determined by their rank and level of experience. As of 2019, the minimum annual pay for the lowest ranking pay grade stood at over $20,000. However, most recruits advance to higher pay grades within a short period.
Additionally, the pay is supplemented by other benefits, including low-cost medical care and free on-base housing. The pay is also adjusted with various bonuses, especially for individuals who are deployed in particular locations.
Job Growth
Due to continued military operations around the world and the expansion of their role, there is a high demand for military police services. Therefore, new opportunities are continuously presenting themselves for confident and qualified individuals to play the part.
Although military life can prove tough at times, it is quite rewarding. It can also serve as a wonderful stepping stone for other careers within the department of justice. Individuals who wish to venture into this career should, therefore, give it thoughtful and sincere consideration, and if they feel that they are up to the task, definitely give it a shot.