545th Military Police Company 1st Cavalry Division

• Activation and Origins: The 545th Military Police Company was first constituted on 8 August 1942 and activated at Fort Custer, Michigan, as part of the U.S. Army’s rapid expansion during World War II. • World War II Service: The company served in the European Theater, participating in key campaigns such as Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes-Alsace, and Central Europe. • Korean War Deployment: The 545th deployed to Korea with the 1st Cavalry Division in 1950, where it played a vital role in maintaining order, traffic control, and security operations during major battles. • Vietnam War: The unit was deployed to Vietnam in 1965, supporting the 1st Cavalry Division (Airmobile) with law enforcement, convoy security, and base defense at An Khe and later at Phuoc Vinh. • Distinguished Valor: During the Vietnam War, the company earned several unit citations for its actions under fire, including the Valorous Unit Award and the Meritorious Unit Commendation. • Desert Shield/Desert Storm: The 545th deployed to Southwest Asia in 1990-1991, conducting battlefield circulation control and security operations during Operations Desert Shield and Desert Storm. • Operation Iraqi Freedom: The company supported the 1st Cavalry Division in Iraq, executing detainee operations, route security, and base protection missions in high-threat environments. • Distinctive Insignia: The 545th’s distinctive unit insignia features a green shield with a gold lamp of knowledge, symbolizing vigilance and the company’s mission of security and order. • “Guardians of the First Team”: The 545th is nicknamed the "Guardians of the First Team," reflecting its close support role to the 1st Cavalry Division, whose nickname is “The First Team.” • Modern Deployments: In the 21st century, the 545th has continued to deploy globally, participating in peacekeeping, counterinsurgency, and homeland security operations, demonstrating adaptability and professionalism.