ABOUT Armed Forces Police Detachment Washington DC
- Unique Mission: The Armed Forces Police Detachment (AFPD) Washington, D.C., is a joint military law enforcement unit tasked with providing security, law enforcement, and ceremonial support in the National Capital Region.
- Joint Service Composition: The AFPD is composed of personnel from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, and occasionally the Coast Guard, making it a rare example of a truly joint-service military police unit.
- Historic Roots: The origins of the AFPD trace back to World War II, when coordination between different military branches was needed to maintain order in the growing Washington, D.C., area.
- White House Support: The unit provides support for high-profile events and locations, including the White House, Pentagon, and other critical federal sites in D.C.
- Iconic Uniforms: Members of the AFPD are known for their distinctive uniforms, which often feature elements from their respective branches, showcasing their joint nature.
- Presidential Inaugurations: The AFPD plays a key role in security and crowd control during U.S. presidential inaugurations, parades, and other national ceremonies.
- Interagency Cooperation: The AFPD regularly cooperates with civilian law enforcement agencies such as the U.S. Park Police, U.S. Secret Service, and Metropolitan Police Department of D.C.
- Training and Specialization: AFPD members receive specialized training in diplomacy, ceremonial protocol, and high-level security operations, beyond standard military police duties.
- 24/7 Operations: The AFPD operates around the clock, ensuring continuous protection of military personnel, facilities, and visiting dignitaries within the capital.
- Notable Incident: In 1983, during the aftermath of the U.S. Senate bombing, AFPD members were among the first military responders to secure the area and aid in the investigation, highlighting their critical emergency response role.