About this Unit
The 787th Military Police Battalion was activated on 16 November 1942 at Camp Shelby, Mississippi, during World War II to provide military police support for the U.S. Army. The battalion deployed to the European Theater, where it conducted security, law enforcement, and prisoner-of-war operations. Following the war, the battalion was inactivated, but it has since been reactivated and deactivated multiple times in response to the Army’s evolving needs. Today, the 787th MP Battalion is stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, where it plays a key role in training new military police soldiers.
Historical Facts
• World War II Origins: The 787th Military Police Battalion was first activated in 1942 at Fort Custer, Michigan, during World War II, primarily for military police and security duties.
• European Theater Service: During WWII, the battalion was deployed to the European Theater, where it played a crucial role in maintaining order and security in liberated and occupied territories.
• Post-War Occupation: After WWII, the 787th MP Battalion was instrumental in military government operations and law enforcement duties in post-war Germany.
• Cold War Reactivation: The battalion was deactivated after WWII but reactivated several times during the Cold War to meet changing military police needs.
• Training Center Role: The 787th MP Battalion is currently stationed at Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri, serving as a key unit for training new military police soldiers for the U.S. Army.
• Distinctive Unit Insignia: The battalion’s crest features a gold key and sword, representing security and military readiness, set on a green and gold shield.
• Operation Iraqi Freedom: Elements of the battalion have deployed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, providing detainee operations, law enforcement, and convoy security.
• Operation Enduring Freedom: The 787th MP Battalion has also supported Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, carrying out critical security and policing missions.
• "Defenders of Order": The motto of the battalion, "Defenders of Order," reflects its long-standing mission to maintain discipline and security wherever deployed.
• Community Engagement: The 787th is active in community outreach at Fort Leonard Wood, participating in local events, school visits, and veteran support initiatives.
