About this Unit
Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 800th Military Police Brigade (HHC 800th MP Bde) was a U.S. Army Reserve unit with a distinguished history in military police operations. The brigade was activated in the early 1970s and provided command and control for subordinate military police battalions, focusing on law enforcement, detainee operations, and battlefield circulation control. HHC 800th MP Bde played a significant role during Operation Iraqi Freedom, where it was responsible for overseeing several detention facilities in Iraq. The unit's service contributed to the broader mission of maintaining order and security during complex military operations overseas.
Historical Facts
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Origins in the Cold War Era: The 800th Military Police Brigade (MP Bde) was originally constituted during the Cold War, reflecting the U.S. Army’s need for structured military policing operations in both peacetime and conflict environments.
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Headquarters and Headquarters Company (HHC): The HHC serves as the command and control element of the 800th MP Brigade, providing administrative, logistical, and operational support to the brigade’s subordinate units.
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Reserve Component: The 800th MP Brigade is a unit of the U.S. Army Reserve, making it one of the key reserve formations specializing in military police functions.
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Key Role in Operation Iraqi Freedom: The Brigade played a significant role during Operation Iraqi Freedom, providing critical detention operations and law enforcement support in Iraq.
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Abu Ghraib Association: The 800th MP Brigade was the higher headquarters responsible for the units at Abu Ghraib prison, which became globally known following reports of detainee abuse in 2003-2004.
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Taguba Report: The actions of members within the 800th MP Brigade were extensively documented in the “Taguba Report,” an Army investigation into detainee abuse at Abu Ghraib.
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Redesignations: Over its history, the 800th MP Brigade has undergone several designations and restructurings, adapting to the evolving needs of the Army.
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Subordinate Units: Besides HHC, the brigade has commanded various battalions and companies specializing in different aspects of military policing, including internment/resettlement and criminal investigations.
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Decorations and Citations: Members of the brigade have received awards and commendations for meritorious service in both domestic and overseas operations.
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Training and Readiness: HHC 800th MP Bde is responsible for the readiness of its soldiers, often participating in large-scale training exercises and joint operations with both U.S. and allied forces.