About this Unit
The 504th Military Police Battalion was originally constituted on 8 June 1945 in the Army of the United States and activated in France during the final months of World War II. After serving in Europe, the unit was inactivated in November 1945, but later reactivated during the Cold War to provide military police support for U.S. Army operations. Throughout its history, the 504th MP Battalion has deployed in support of major conflicts, including the Vietnam War and Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom, providing law enforcement, security, and detainee operations. Known for its professionalism and adaptability, the battalion continues to play a vital role in maintaining order and discipline wherever U.S. forces are stationed.
Historical Facts
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Origins in WWII: The 504th Military Police Battalion was originally constituted on 29 July 1942 in the Army of the United States as the 504th Military Police Battalion and activated at Fort Sam Houston, Texas.
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European Theater Deployment: The battalion served in the European Theater during World War II, participating in campaigns such as Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, and Central Europe.
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Normandy Landings: Elements of the 504th landed in Normandy shortly after D-Day, executing critical traffic control and security missions during the Allied advance.
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Occupation Duties: After WWII, the unit performed occupation duties in Germany, maintaining order and facilitating post-war reconstruction efforts.
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Korean War Service: The 504th MP Battalion was reactivated for service during the Korean War, providing military police support in the conflict.
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Vietnam War Involvement: The battalion deployed to Vietnam in 1966, where it conducted law enforcement, convoy security, and area security operations.
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Distinctive Unit Insignia: The battalion’s insignia features the scales of justice and a sword, symbolizing the military police’s role in upholding law and order.
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Desert Storm Participation: The 504th MP Battalion deployed in support of Operation Desert Storm in 1991, performing prisoner of war operations and battlefield circulation control.
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Post-9/11 Deployments: The unit has supported both Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom, providing law enforcement and security operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.
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Modern-Day Role: Currently assigned to the 42nd Military Police Brigade at Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington, the 504th MP Battalion continues to provide critical law enforcement and force protection capabilities for the U.S. Army.
