About this Unit
The Military Police School at Anniston, Alabama, often referred to as the MAA School or MP School, played a significant role in training military police personnel for the United States Army. Established during World War II, the school provided comprehensive instruction in law enforcement, security operations, and battlefield policing. Thousands of soldiers received specialized training at Anniston, enhancing the Army’s capabilities in maintaining order and discipline both at home and overseas. The school’s legacy includes its contributions to the professionalization of the Military Police Corps before the training mission transferred to Fort Gordon, Georgia, and later to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.
Historical Facts
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Origins as Military Police School: The Military Police School at Anniston, AL, known as MP School Anniston, was established during World War II to train soldiers in military police duties, reflecting the growing need for disciplined law enforcement within the expanding U.S. Army.
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Location at Fort McClellan: The school was located at Fort McClellan, near Anniston, Alabama, which became synonymous with military police training for decades.
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Women's Army Corps (WAC): Fort McClellan was also home to the Women's Army Corps School, making it one of the first U.S. Army installations to train both male and female soldiers in law enforcement roles.
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Training for Multiple Branches: The MP School at Anniston trained not only Army MPs but also personnel from the Navy, Air Force, and Marine Corps, fostering inter-service cooperation.
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School Insignia: The school’s distinctive insignia included the crossed pistols, the symbol of the Military Police Corps, which remains an iconic representation of the profession.
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Canine Training: The Anniston school was instrumental in developing military working dog (K-9) programs, training both handlers and their canine partners for patrol, detection, and guard duties.
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Cold War Era Expansion: During the Cold War, the MP School expanded its curriculum to include nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) defense, reflecting new threats and responsibilities for military police.
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Closure and Relocation: In 1999, as part of the Base Realignment and Closure (BRAC) process, the MP School at Anniston was closed and its functions were transferred to Fort Leonard Wood, Missouri.
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Legacy Alumni: Many notable military leaders, including senior officers and Medal of Honor recipients, passed through MP School Anniston, contributing to its storied legacy.
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Community Impact: The presence of the MP School and Fort McClellan had a significant economic and social impact on Anniston, forging strong ties between the military and local community that are remembered to this day.
