About this Unit
The 529th Military Police Company (529th MP Co.), known as the "Honor Guard," was activated during World War II and has served in various capacities throughout its distinguished history. Originally stationed in Europe, the unit provided security and law enforcement support for U.S. Army installations, notably in Heidelberg, Germany. The 529th MP Co. is renowned for its ceremonial duties, including providing honor guards for official functions and dignitaries. Over the decades, the unit has participated in numerous operations and missions, demonstrating professionalism and adaptability in both peacetime and conflict environments.
Historical Facts
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World War II Origins: The 529th Military Police Company was first constituted on 15 December 1942 during World War II, supporting US Army operations across the European Theater.
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Campaign Credits: The unit earned campaign participation credits in several major WWII campaigns, including Rhineland and Central Europe.
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Post-War Berlin Service: After World War II, the 529th MP Co. was assigned to Berlin, Germany, playing a pivotal role in maintaining order in the divided city during the Cold War.
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Berlin Duty Train Escorts: The company was famously responsible for escorting the US Army's Berlin Duty Train through East Germany, a risky and highly sensitive mission during the Cold War.
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Unit Nickname: The 529th is known as the "Honor Guard of the American Sector," reflecting their ceremonial and protective duties in Berlin.
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Checkpoint Charlie Presence: The unit regularly manned US checkpoints in Berlin, including the iconic Checkpoint Charlie, interacting with both Allied and Soviet forces.
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Security for US Officials: The 529th provided protective services for visiting US dignitaries and officials in Berlin, including presidents and high-ranking military officers.
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Berlin Wall Fall: Members of the 529th were present and on duty in Berlin during the fall of the Berlin Wall in 1989, witnessing history firsthand.
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Reactivation and Deployments: The unit was inactivated after the Cold War but later reactivated, serving in various locations and missions including Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.
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Distinctive Unit Insignia: The 529th MP Co.'s distinctive unit insignia features a key and a sword, symbolizing their role in both security and combat operations throughout their history.
