About this Unit
The 716th Military Police Battalion (716th MP Bn) was activated in 1942 and has a distinguished history of service within the United States Army. During World War II, the battalion provided critical security and law enforcement support in the European Theater. Most notably, the 716th MP Bn was stationed in Saigon during the Vietnam War, where it played a pivotal role in defending the city during the 1968 Tet Offensive. Over the years, the battalion has continued to support military operations at home and abroad, upholding its motto, "Security with Mobility."
Historical Facts
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World War II Origins: The 716th Military Police Battalion (716 MP Bn) was originally constituted on 10 January 1942 in the Army of the United States and activated on 15 April 1942 at Fort Riley, Kansas.
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European Theater Service: During World War II, the 716 MP Bn served in Europe, participating in campaigns across Normandy, Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes-Alsace, and Central Europe.
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Post-War Reorganizations: The battalion was inactivated in 1946 after World War II and later reactivated in various forms to meet the Army’s evolving needs.
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Vietnam War Notoriety: The 716th gained significant attention for its service in Vietnam, especially for its actions during the Tet Offensive of 1968, when it defended key installations in Saigon.
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Saigon Embassy Defense: During the Tet Offensive, elements of the 716th were directly involved in the defense and successful recapture of the U.S. Embassy in Saigon after the Viet Cong attack.
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Decorated Service: For its actions in Vietnam, the battalion received numerous commendations, including the Meritorious Unit Commendation and the Republic of Vietnam Cross of Gallantry with Palm.
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Post-Vietnam Activities: After Vietnam, the 716 MP Bn was stationed at various posts, including Fort Riley and Fort Campbell, supporting law enforcement, security, and deployment missions.
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Support to Homeland Operations: The battalion has provided assistance in domestic operations, including disaster response and support to civil authorities within the United States.
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21st Century Deployments: In recent decades, the 716 MP Bn has deployed units to Iraq and Afghanistan, supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom.
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Current Role: Today, the 716th Military Police Battalion remains an active and vital part of the U.S. Army, based at Fort Campbell, Kentucky, with missions including law enforcement, force protection, and support to contingency operations worldwide.
