89th MP BDE:720 MP BN

• Formation of the 89th MP Brigade: The 89th Military Police Brigade was constituted on 19 February 1966 in the Regular Army and activated at Fort Lewis, Washington, to provide command and control for military police units during the Vietnam War. • Deployment to Vietnam: Elements of the 89th MP Brigade were deployed to South Vietnam, where they provided law enforcement, security, and combat support from 1966 to 1971. • 720th Military Police Battalion Origins: The 720th MP Battalion was activated on 20 January 1942 at Fort George G. Meade, Maryland, making it one of the oldest active military police battalions in the U.S. Army. • World War II Service: During WWII, the 720th MP Battalion performed security and law enforcement duties in the United States and later served in Australia, New Guinea, and the Philippines. • Counterinsurgency Operations in Vietnam: The 720th MP Battalion is unique for conducting counterinsurgency operations, including the famous “Roadrunner” missions along Highway 317 in Vietnam—typically an infantry role. • Distinctive Unit Insignia: The 89th MP Brigade’s insignia features a green shield with a gold sword, symbolizing law enforcement and military readiness, while the 720th MP Battalion’s insignia incorporates a key and a sword, denoting their security and combat mission. • Operation Iraqi Freedom & Enduring Freedom: Both units deployed multiple times to Iraq and Afghanistan, where they secured bases, conducted detainee operations, and trained local police forces. • Support to Civil Authorities: The 720th MP Battalion has a long history of supporting domestic operations, including hurricane relief and riot control, such as during the Detroit riots of 1967. • First to Use K-9 Units in Vietnam: The 720th MP Battalion was the first to deploy military working dog teams in Vietnam, enhancing perimeter security and patrol operations. • Current Station: Both the 89th MP Brigade and 720th MP Battalion are currently headquartered at Fort Cavazos (formerly Fort Hood), Texas, serving as key components of the Army’s law enforcement and security mission.