About this Unit
The 5th Military Police Company (5th MP Co.), assigned to the 5th Infantry Division (Mechanized), was based at Fort Polk, Louisiana. The unit provided crucial law enforcement, security, and battlefield support to the division, especially during periods of heightened readiness throughout the Cold War. The 5th MP Co. participated in numerous field exercises and deployments, ensuring order and discipline within the division and supporting training operations at Fort Polk. Over its history, the company played a vital role in both garrison and operational environments before the division's inactivation in the early 1990s.
Historical Facts
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Vietnam Era Origins: The 5th Military Police Company was an integral part of the 5th Infantry Division (Mechanized), which saw extensive service during the Vietnam War. The unit provided security, convoy escort, and law enforcement duties both in the U.S. and in Vietnam.
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Red Diamond Division: The 5th Infantry Division is nicknamed the "Red Diamond" division, and its soldiers, including those in the 5th MP Company, proudly wore the distinctive red diamond patch.
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Ft. Polk Assignment: The 5th MP Company was based for an extended period at Fort Polk, Louisiana, a major training and deployment center, especially during the Vietnam War era and Cold War.
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Vietnam Deployment: The 5th MP Company deployed to Vietnam in July 1968, supporting the division in the challenging Quang Tri Province near the DMZ, where MPs faced frequent enemy action.
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Combat Operations: Unlike many MP units, the 5th MP Company in Vietnam took part in combat operations, including convoy security on dangerous routes like Highway 1 and Highway 9, subject to ambushes and mines.
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Refugee and POW Operations: Members of the company were involved in managing refugee camps, handling POWs, and maintaining order during civilian evacuations.
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Notable Incident – Convoy Ambush: In August 1969, the 5th MP Company was credited with repelling a major ambush on a logistics convoy, inflicting heavy casualties on the attackers and saving many lives.
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Stateside Duties: At Fort Polk, the 5th MP Company performed installation security, training support, traffic control, and law enforcement, helping maintain discipline among thousands of troops.
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Deactivation and Legacy: The 5th Infantry Division and its MP Company were inactivated at Fort Polk in 1992, but veterans maintain a strong network and share their stories at reunions and online.
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Decorations and Citations: The company earned numerous awards, including battle streamers and unit citations for its service in Vietnam, highlighting the bravery and professionalism of its soldiers.
