About this Unit
The 759th Military Police Battalion was constituted on 19 August 1942 and activated at Fort Ontario, New York, during World War II. The unit provided military police support throughout the European Theater, including during the Normandy campaign and subsequent operations in France and Germany. After the war, the battalion was inactivated and later reactivated, supporting missions during the Cold War, Operation Desert Storm, and the Global War on Terrorism. The 759th MP Battalion is currently stationed at Fort Carson, Colorado, continuing its legacy of law enforcement, force protection, and support to military operations worldwide.
Historical Facts
• World War II Origins: The 759th Military Police Battalion was constituted on 19 August 1942 and activated at Fort Ontario, New York on 15 September 1942.
• European Theater Service: During World War II, the 759th MP Battalion served in the European Theater, including France, Belgium, and Germany, providing critical security, traffic control, and POW operations.
• Normandy Campaign: The battalion landed in Normandy shortly after D-Day, assisting with the control and movement of troops, equipment, and prisoners of war.
• Decorations: The 759th received campaign participation credit for Northern France, Rhineland, Ardennes-Alsace, and Central Europe, reflecting its extensive involvement in key WWII campaigns.
• Cold War Service: After WWII, the unit was activated and inactivated several times, performing law enforcement and security missions in the U.S. and Germany during the Cold War.
• Support for the Berlin Airlift: Elements of the 759th provided vital support during the Berlin Airlift, ensuring order and security for U.S. operations in a tense environment.
• Modern Era Activation: The battalion was reactivated at Fort Carson, Colorado, on 16 September 1987, and has remained there since, adapting to new missions and challenges.
• Global War on Terror: Since 2001, the 759th MP Battalion has deployed multiple times in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom, performing law enforcement, detainee operations, and convoy security.
• Distinctive Unit Insignia: The battalion’s insignia features a green and yellow shield, representing the Military Police Corps, and the motto "Tenez La Porte" (Hold the Gate), emphasizing its protective mission.
• Community Impact: Beyond combat duties, the 759th MP Battalion plays a key role in Fort Carson and the Colorado Springs community, assisting in disaster relief, security, and ceremonial events.