Military Police Detachment, 9206th Technical Service Unit

• Special Role in the Manhattan Project: The 9206th Technical Service Unit, including its Military Police Detachment, was tasked with providing security and logistical support for the highly secretive Manhattan Project operations at Oak Ridge, Tennessee. • Guarding Atomic Secrets: Members of the Military Police Detachment played a crucial role in preventing espionage and sabotage at the Y-12 and K-25 plants, which were central to uranium enrichment for the first atomic bombs. • Unique Training and Clearance: MPs assigned to the 9206th underwent special screening and received high-level security clearances due to the sensitive nature of their mission. • Use of Code Words: The Military Police were instructed to use code words such as “Tubealloy” and “X-10” to discuss project operations, ensuring secrecy even within the unit. • Living in a Secret City: Oak Ridge, where the 9206th was based, was a “secret city” that did not appear on maps during WWII. MPs enforced strict access control to maintain operational secrecy. • First Line of Defense: The detachment was the first line of defense against unauthorized entry, searching vehicles and individuals, and monitoring perimeters with guard dogs and patrols. • Dealing with Accidents: MPs also responded to industrial accidents and emergencies, helping to evacuate and secure areas in case of chemical or radiological incidents. • Interaction with Scientists: Military Police often escorted prominent scientists such as J. Robert Oppenheimer and Ernest Lawrence during their visits to Oak Ridge. • Postwar Service: After WWII, the 9206th and its MP Detachment continued to provide security as nuclear research and weapons production expanded during the early Cold War. • Award and Recognition: Members of the Military Police Detachment were commended for their discipline and professionalism, contributing to the overall success and secrecy of the Manhattan Project.