FM 3-19.1 Military Police Operations

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Headquarters, Department of the Army 


FM 3-19.1 (FM 19-1) 


DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTION: 
Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. 


*FM 3-19.1 (FM 19.1) 
C1 


Change 1 Headquarters 
Department of the Army 
Washington, DC, 31 January 2002 


Military Police Operations 


1. Change FM 3-19.1, 22 March 2001 as follows: 


Remove Old Pages 
Insert New Pages 


1-7 and 1-8 
1-7 through 1-19 


Glossary-5 through Glossary-16 
Glossary-5 through Glossary-16 


2. A bar ( l ) marks new or changed material. 


3. File this transmittal sheet in front of the publication. 


DISTRIBUTION RESTRICTION: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. 


By Order of the Secretary of the Army: 


ERIC K. SHINSEKI 
General, United States Army 
Chief of Staff 


Official: 


JOEL B. HUDSON 
Administrative Assistant to the 
Secretary of the Army 
0203505 


DISTRIBUTION: 
Active Army, Army National Guard, and US Army Reserve: To be distributed in accordance with the initial 
distribution number 111046, requirements for FM 3-19.1. 


FM 3-19.1 (FM 19-1) 
22 MARCH 2001 


By Order of the Secretary of the Army: 


ERIC K. SHINSEKI 
General, United States Army 
Chief of Staff 
Official: 


JOEL B. HUDSON 
Administrative Assistant to the 
Secretary of the Army 
0103705 


DISTRIBUTION: 


Active Army, Army National Guard, and US Army Reserve: To be distributed in 
accordance with the initial distribution number 111046, requirements for 
FM 3-19.1 


I 


*FM 3-19.1 (FM 19-1) 


Field Manual 
Headquarters 
No. 3-19.1 
Department of the Army 
Washington, DC, 22 March 2001 


Military Police Operations 


Contents 


Page 


PREFACE .................................................................................................................. iv 


Chapter 1 
INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................... 1-1 
Overview ................................................................................................................ 1-1 
Operational Framework .......................................................................................... 1-3 
Battlefield Organization............................................................................................ 1-4 
Types of Military Police Units .................................................................................. 1-7 
Joint, Multinational, and Interagency Operations .................................................... 1-7 


Chapter 2 
BATTLE COMMAND .............................................................................................. 2-1 
Overview ................................................................................................................. 2-1 
Battlefield Visualization ............................................................................................ 2-1 
Commander's Intent ................................................................................................ 2-2 
Concept of Operations ............................................................................................ 2-2 
Command and Control Relationships ...................................................................... 2-2 
Support Relationships ............................................................................................. 2-3 
Staff Relationships .................................................................................................. 2-3 


Chapter 3 
THE THREAT .......................................................................................................... 3-1 
Overview .................................................................................................................. 3-1 
Rear-Area and Sustainment Operations ................................................................. 3-1 
Reception, Staging, Onward Movement, and Integration Operations ..................... 3-2 
Threat Levels ........................................................................................................... 3-3 
Threat Priorities........................................................................................................ 3-4 
Threat Location ....................................................................................................... 3-5 
Countering the Threat ............................................................................................. 3-7 


Chapter 4 
MILITARY POLICE FUNCTIONS ........................................................................... 4-1 
Overview ................................................................................................................. 4-1 
Maneuver and Mobility Support ............................................................................... 4-2 
Area Security ........................................................................................................... 4-6 
Internment and Resettlement .................................................................................. 4-9 
Law and Order ...................................................................................................... 4-10 
Police Intelligence Operations ............................................................................... 4-13 


Distribution Restriction: Approved for public release; distribution is unlimited. 


*This publication supersedes FM 19-1, 23 May 1988. 


ii 


Page 


FM 3-19.1 


Chapter 5 
MILITARY POLICE SUPPORT TO ECHELONS ABOVE CORPS ........................ 5-1 
Overview ................................................................................................................. 5-1 
Military Police Support ............................................................................................ 5-2 


Chapter 6 
MILITARY POLICE SUPPORT TO CORPS ........................................................... 6-1 
Overview ................................................................................................................. 6-1 
The Military Police Brigade (Combat Support) ........................................................ 6-1 
Command and Control ............................................................................................ 6-3 
Employment ............................................................................................................ 6-3 


Chapter 7 
MILITARY POLICE SUPPORT TO DIVISION ........................................................ 7-1 
Overview ................................................................................................................. 7-1 
Division Military Police Company ............................................................................ 7-2 
Command and Control ............................................................................................ 7-2 
Military Police Employment ..................................................................................... 7-3 


Chapter 8 
SEPARATE BRIGADES AND INITIAL/INTERIM BRIGADE COMBAT TEAMS ... 8-1 
Overview ................................................................................................................. 8-1 
Support to Separate Brigades ................................................................................. 8-1 
Support to the Initial/Interim Brigade Combat Team ............................................... 8-2 


Chapter 9 
THE UNITED STATES ARMY CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION COMMAND ............ 9-1 
Overview ................................................................................................................. 9-1 
Command and Control ............................................................................................ 9-2 
Wartime Support ..................................................................................................... 9-2 
Organization ............................................................................................................ 9-4 
Employment ............................................................................................................ 9-8 


Chapter 10 
OFFENSIVE AND DEFENSIVE OPERATIONS ................................................... 10-1 
Overview ............................................................................................................... 10-1 
Support to Offensive Operations ........................................................................... 10-1 
Support to Defensive Operations .......................................................................... 10-3 


Chapter 11 
STABILITY AND SUPPORT OPERATIONS ........................................................ 11-1 
Overview ............................................................................................................... 11-1 
Force Suitability ..................................................................................................... 11-2 
Stability and Support.............................................................................................. 11-3 
Organizations and Capabilities ........................................................................... 11-14 


Chapter 12 
FORCE PROTECTION ......................................................................................... 12-1 
Overview ............................................................................................................... 12-1 
Support to Force Protection .................................................................................. 12-1 


Appendix A 
METRIC CONVERSION CHART ........................................................................... A-1 


Appendix B 
DOCTRINE AND TRAINING LITERATURE ..........................................................B-1 
Doctrine ...................................................................................................................B-1 
Tactics .....................................................................................................................B-2 
Techniques ..............................................................................................................B-2 
Procedures ..............................................................................................................B-2 


iii 


Page 


FM 3-19.1 


Appendix C 
BATTLEFIELD WORKLOAD ANALYSIS ............................................................. C-1 


Appendix D 
AUTOMATED INFORMATION SYSTEMS 
IN SUPPORT OF BATTLE COMMAND ................................................................ D-1 
Army Information Systems ..................................................................................... D-1 
Military Police Automated Systems ........................................................................ D-4 


Appendix E 
POLICE INFORMATION ASSESSMENT PROCESS ............................................E-1 
Implementation ........................................................................................................E-1 
Sample Scenario .....................................................................................................E-6 


Glossary .............................................................................................................................Glossary-1 


Bibliography ............................................................................................................... Bibliography-1 


Index 
...................................................................................................................................... Index-1 


iv Preface 


Page 


FM 3-19.1 


Preface 


The Military Police (MP) Corps supports the commander across the full spectrum of military 
operations. This manual is the foundation for all MP doctrine as it relates to this support. It 
communicates to all levels of leadership and staffs how the MP provide a flexible and lethal force 
capable of operating across this full spectrum. As the keystone manual, it identifies what the MP 
train on and how their forces are organized and equipped in support of all Army echelons. 
Additionally, this manual provides guidance that can be used by United States (US) Army service 
schools, students, sister services, and federal agencies. 


This manual is based on the purpose, organization, responsibilities, and goals of the US Army as 
set forth in Field Manuals (FMs) 100-1 and 3-0, as well as corps, division, and brigade manuals. 
Additionally, this manual is fully compatible with current joint, multinational, and interagency 
doctrine. 


Appendix A contains a metric conversion chart. 


The proponent of this publication is HQ TRADOC. Send comments and recommendations on 
Department of the Army (DA) Form 2028 directly to Commandant, US Army Military Police 
School (USAMPS), ATTN: ATSJ-MP-TD, 401 Engineer Loop, Suite 2060, Fort Leonard Wood, 
Missouri 65473-8926. 


Unless this publication states otherwise, masculine nouns or pronouns do not refer exclusively to 
men. 


Introduction 1-1 


Chapter 1 


Introduction 


The MP Corps has a strong history evolving over the past five decades. 
We, as a corps, continue to transform our organizations and doctrine 
as we have in the past to support the Army in the active defense of the 
1970s, the AirLand battle of the 1980s, and now the force-projection 
doctrine of the 1990s. Our five MP functions clearly articulate the 
diverse role the MP play across the full spectrum of military 
operations. We cannot bask in our successes, nor reflect or celebrate. 
Our charter is to continue our legacy of stellar performance and strive 
to perfect it. 


BG Donald J. Ryder 


When the Army developed the Active Defense strategy in 1976, the US 
was facing the Cold War scenario of central Europe. Military strategy and 
doctrine were related to a single, focused threat that revolved around the 
countries in the Warsaw Pact. We were an outnumbered and technically 
inferior force facing an armor-dominated European battlefield. The MP 
Corps supported the Active Defense strategy by tailoring its forces to meet 
the threat. In 1982, when the AirLand Battle strategy was developed, US 
forces were still outnumbered, but were no longer technically inferior. Still 
threat-based and focused on a central European conflict, the AirLand 
Battle strategy used a relatively fixed framework suited to the echeloned 
attack of soviet-style forces. It delineated and clarified the levels of war; 
emphasized closed, concerted operations of airpower and ground forces; 
balanced the offense and the defense; and highlighted the synchronization 
of close, deep, and rear operations. MP doctrine kept pace with the Army's 
AirLand Battle strategy by supporting the battlefield commander through 
four basic missions—battlefield circulation and control, area security (AS), 
enemy prisoner of war (EPW), and law and order (L&O). 


OVERVIEW 


1-1. In October 1983, MP capabilities in the AirLand Battle strategy were 
tested during operation Urgent Fury in Grenada. The MP performed missions 
that ranged from assisting the infantry in building-clearance operations to 
assisting Caribbean peacekeeping forces in restoring L&O. These actions 
secured the MP’s place in the combat-support (CS) role, demonstrating the 
professional knowledge and flexibility necessary for rapid transition from 
combat to CS to peacetime missions. The changing battlefield conditions of 
operation Urgent Fury set the stage for the demand of MP units today. 


FM 3-19.1 


1-2 Introduction 


1-2. Evolving simultaneously with the changing definition of the modern 
battlefield, MP performance in Operations Hawkeye, Just Cause, and Desert 
Shield/Storm galvanized their ability to perform at any point along the 
operational continuum. With the publication of FM 100-5 in 1993, the Army 
adopted the doctrine of full-dimensional operations, relying on the art of battle 
command to apply those principles and to shift the focus from AirLand Battle 
to force-projection doctrine. This new doctrine was based on recent combat 
experience in a multipolar world with new technological advances. Already 
trained and expected to perform in this new strategy, MP support was already 
in place and fully operational. The MP continued to perform their basic 
battlefield missions and to refine their capabilities while supporting the 
battlefield commander as he deployed to contingency operations throughout 
the world. 


1-3. In 1996, the MP Corps went through a doctrinal review process to 
determine if it was properly articulating its multiple performance capabilities 
in support of US forces deployed worldwide (see Appendix B). The review 
process identified the need to restructure and expand the EPW mission to 
include handling US military prisoners and all dislocated civilians. This new 
emphasis transformed the EPW mission into the internment and resettlement 
(I/R) function. The review process also identified the need to shift from 
missions to functions. In the past, the four battlefield missions adequately 
described MP capabilities in a mature theater against a predictable, echeloned 
threat. However, that landscape is no longer valid. Accordingly, the four MP 
battlefield missions have become the following five MP functions: 
• 
Maneuver and mobility support (MMS). 
• 
AS. 
• 
L&O. 
• 
I/R. 
• 
Police intelligence operations (PIO). 


1-4. These new MP functions are shaped by the following factors: 
• 
The 
application of 
stability 
and 
support 
operations 
where 
the 
integration of joint, multinational, and interagency capabilities are 
common occurrence. 
• 
The 
lack 
of 
traditional 
linear 
battlefields, 
requiring 
theater 
commanders in chief (CINCs) to request forces that meet a specific 
function to accomplish operational requirements. 
• 
The impact of asymmetric threats (such as drug traffickers and 
terrorist factions) and the effects of man-made and natural disasters. 
• 
The 
impact 
of 
advances 
in 
information 
and 
communication 
technologies and specifically in understanding the increased 
vulnerabilities presented by these technologies. 


1-5. Articulating MP capabilities along functional lines benefits the MP and 
the Army echelon commander as well as the combatant commander. Since 
there is a multinational, interagency, and sister-service overlap of security 
services, the importance of including MP leaders and staffs early in the 
operational planning process cannot be overemphasized. This means before 
units are designated, unit boundaries are drawn, and unit missions are 
assigned. Early involvement ensures the proper development of common 


FM 3-19.1 


Introduction 1-3 


security responsibilities, communication and connectivity, liaisons, processes, 
and the rules of interaction between all forces. The ultimate goal should be the 
optimal, phased employment of MP forces in support of a commander's 
operational plan. MP functions not only reflect and capture current 
capabilities, they define the MP Corps in the twenty-first century. 


1-6. As the Army reshapes and focuses its resources on transformation, Force 
XXI, and other redesign efforts, the MP Corps stands proud and ready to 
support this progress and reiterate its commitment to assist, protect, and 
defend. 


OPERATIONAL FRAMEWORK 


1-7. The operational framework consists of the arrangement of friendly forces 
and resources in time, space, and purpose with respect to each other, the 
enemy, or the situation (see Figure 1-1). The operational framework for Army 
forces (ARFOR) rests within the combatant commander's theater 
organization. Each combatant commander has an assigned geographical area 
of responsibility (AOR), also called a theater, within which he has the 
authority to plan and conduct operations. Within the theater, joint-force 
commanders at all levels may establish subordinate operational areas such as 
areas of operation (AOs), joint-operations areas (JOAs) and joint rear areas 


THEATER OF WAR 


OPERATIONS AREA 


LAND FORCE 
REAR BOUNDARY 


AREA 


COMMZ 


THEATER OF OPERATIONS 


CONUS 


JOA 
JSOA 


AO 


Amphibious 
objective 
area 


Theater of war 


COMMZ 


TO 


Land-force 
rear 
boundary 


CZ 


Figure 1-1. Operational Framework 


FM 3-19.1 


1-4 Introduction 


(JRAs). The JRAs facilitate the protection and operation of bases, 
installations, and forces that support combat operations. When warranted, 
combatant commanders may designate theaters of war, theaters of operations 
(TOs), combat zones (CZs), and communications zones (COMMZs). 


1-8. A theater of war is that area of air, land, or water that is, or may become, 
directly involved in the conduct of the war. A theater of war may contain more 
than one TO. It does not normally encompass the geographic combatant 
commander's entire AOR. A TO is a subarea (defined by a geographic 
combatant commander) within a theater of war in which specific combat 
operations are conducted or supported. 


1-9. A CZ is the area required by combat forces for conducting operations. It 
normally extends forward from the land force’s rear boundary. The COMMZ is 
the rear part of the TO (behind but contiguous to the CZ) that contains the 
lines of communication (LOC) and provides supply and evacuation support. 
Other agencies required for the immediate support and maintenance of field 
forces may also be located in the COMMZ. The COMMZ spans back to the 
continental US (CONUS) base, to a supporting combatant commander's AOR, 
or both. 


1-10. An AO is an operational area defined by the joint-force commander for 
land and naval forces. An AO does not typically encompass the entire 
operational area of the joint-force command (JFC), but it should be large 
enough for component commanders to accomplish their mission and protect 
their forces. Army commanders use control measures to describe AOs and to 
design them to fit the situation and take advantage of the joint force’s 
capabilities. Commanders typically subdivide the assigned AO by assigning 
subordinate-unit areas. These subordinate-unit areas may be contiguous or 
noncontiguous (see Figure 1-2). When friendly forces are contiguous, a 
boundary separates them. When friendly forces are noncontiguous, the 
concept of operations links the force’s elements, but the AOs do not share a 
boundary. The intervening area between noncontiguous AOs remains the 
responsibility of the higher headquarters. 


BATTLEFIELD ORGANIZATION 


1-11. Battlefield organization is the arrangement of forces according to 
purpose, time, and space to accomplish a mission. Battlefield organization has 
both a purpose- and spatial-based framework. The purpose-based framework 
centers on decisive, shaping, and sustaining (DSS) operations. Purpose unifies 
all elements of the battlefield organization by providing the common focus for 
all actions. However, forces act in time and space to accomplish a purpose. The 
spatial-based framework includes close, deep, and rear areas. Despite the 
increasing nonlinear nature of operations, there may be situations where 
commanders describe DSS operations in spatial terms. Typically, linear 
operations involve conventional combat and concentrated maneuver forces. 
Ground forces share boundaries and orient against a similarly organized 
enemy force. In such situations, commanders direct and focus simultaneous 
DSS operations in deep, close, and rear areas, respectively (see FM 3-0). 


1-12. The MP battlefield organization supports every Army echelon, from the 
Army service component command (ASCC) and the theater-support command 


FM 3-19.1 


Introduction 1-5 


(TSC) to the maneuver brigade. Regardless of the battlefield organization 
(purpose or spatial based), MP support to the Army commander is based on 
available resources and mission, enemy, terrain, troops, time available, and 
civilian considerations (METT-TC). 


1-13. MP support throughout the theater of war may include MP units in the 
JOA and in the TO. If the combatant commander designates a COMMZ and a 
CZ within his TO, MP support will come from the established MP modified 
table of organization and equipment (MTOE) at the subordinate-command 
echelon. MP support to the JOA is also provided based on METT-TC and 
available MP assets. Typical MP support may include an I/R brigade liaison 
detachment (BLD), MP brigades and battalions, a division MP company, a 
military-working-dog (MWD) team, an L&O team, and a customs team. 
Figure 1-3, page 1-6, depicts a typical MP organization throughout the TO. In 
the COMMZ, Figure 1-3 depicts the different types of MP units that are 
assigned to echelons above corps (EAC) (the ASCC or the TSC). In the CZ, 
Figure 1-3 depicts the different types of MP units that are assigned to corps, 
division, and the separate brigades. 


SUPPORT IN THE COMMZ 


1-14. MP support in the COMMZ is provided by an array of multifunctional 
MP units. The following MP units provide MP support to EAC: 
• 
The MP brigade (I/R). The MP brigade (I/R) may augment the ASCC 
or the TSC during wartime. Its mission is to provide command, staff 


Figure 1-2. Contiguous and Noncontiguous AOs 


Contiguous AOs 
Adjacent subordinate-unit AOs share 
boundaries. In this case, the higher head- 
quarters allocates all of the assigned AO 
to subordinate units. 


Noncontiguous AOs 
Subordinate units receive distinct AOs. The 
higher headquarters retains responsibility for 
the unassigned portion of the AO. 


MP 


MP 


MP 


x 


l l 


l l 


l l 


l l 


l l 


l l 


l l 


l l 


l l 


MP 
l l 


MP 
l l 


MP 
l l 


l l 


l l 
l l 


x 
x 


x 


FM 3-19.1 


1-6 Introduction 


planning, and supervision of I/R operations. This includes 
coordination with joint and host-nation (HN) agencies, civilian police 
authority, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), and US federal 
agencies. 
• 
The MP brigade (CS). The MP brigade (CS) is assigned to the ASCC or 
the TSC during wartime (based on METT-TC). The MP brigade (CS) is 
capable of performing all five MP functions. 
• 
The Criminal Investigation Division (CID) group. The CID group is a 
stovepipe organization that reports directly to the Commander, US 
Army Criminal Investigation Command (USACIDC). The CID group 
provides support to the ASCC and subordinate commands (TSC, corps, 
or division). See Chapter 9 for further discussion of CID support. 


1-15. MP support to other EAC subordinate commands is performed only if 
MP resources are available. See Chapter 5 for further discussion of MP 
support to EAC. 


CID 


I/R 
MP 


X 
X 


XXX 


X 


XX 


XX 


I I 
I I 
I I 
I 
... 
.. 
.. 
. 


I I 
I I 
I 


I 
I 


I 
I 
I 


X 


... 


... 
... 


.. 


. 


MP 


CUST 


I/R 
CONF 
I/R 
BLD 
I/R 
BLD 
I/R 
IC 
MP 
ES GD 
MP 


MP 
GD 
I/R 
EPW/CI 
I/R 
EPW/CI 


MP 
GD 
MP 
GD 


MWD 
CID 
L&O 


MP 
MP 


MP 


MP 
MP 


MP 
(Corps PM) 
DIV 
PM 
BDE 
PM 


SEP 
DIV 
CID 
CORPS 


COMMZ 
CZ 


EAC 
(ASCC/TSC) 


Based on METT-TC 


Figure 1-3. MP Structure in the TO 


X 
I I 


FM 3-19.1 


1-7 


SUPPORT IN THE CZ 


1-16. MP support is provided in the CZ to each corps, division, and brigade 
(separate teams or initial/interim brigade combat teams [IBCTs]). An MP 
brigade (CS) is assigned to each corps, and the MP brigade commander is the 
corps’s provost marshal (PM). A PM and his section, along with an organic 
division MP company, are assigned to each division. A PM cell and an MP 
platoon are organic to a separate brigade. A two-person PM cell is organic to 
the IBCT. The MP units assigned to corps, divisions, and separate brigades 
are capable of performing all five MP functions. They provide combat, CS, and 
combat-service-support (CSS) operations within their command's AO. 


TYPES OF MILITARY POLICE UNITS 


1-17. Most MP units supporting a TO and a JOA are capable of performing all 
five MP functions. However, the functions must be prioritized based on 
METT-TC and the availability of MP assets. Current MP structures are 
designed and tailored to better support the level of command deployed. For 
example, at the division level, division MP companies are organized as light, 
heavy, airborne, or air assault and are organic to their respective divisions. 
The EAC and corps MP brigades and battalions are equally designed to 
command and control a force mix of up to six battalions or companies. An MP 
escort-guard and guard company are designed to transport, guard, and 
provide security to EPWs, civilian internees (CIs), or dislocated civilians. The 
MP escort-guard company is assigned to the MP brigade (I/R), and the MP 
guard company is assigned to the MP battalion (I/R). 


1-18. MP units can also be tailored and augmented to accomplish multiple, 
diverse, or specific missions. Customs, L&O, and MWD teams are examples of 
MP capabilities and flexible responses to a combatant commander's 
operational requirements. (See Table 1-1, pages 1-9 through 1-19, for a more 
complete description of MP units. See FM 19-10 and Army Regulation (AR) 
190-12 for further information.) The battlefield workload analysis (BWA) is a 
tool used to determine the number of MP units required to perform some of 
these multiple missions (see Appendix C). 


JOINT, MULTINATIONAL, AND INTERAGENCY OPERATIONS 


1-19. In today's environment, the Army will rarely operate or fight alone. The 
high probability that the Army will operate in concert with its sister services, 
in an alliance with the forces of foreign nations, or in support of United 
Nations (UN) operations (when it is committed) is fully reflected in joint 
doctrine. In such operations, protecting LOC, key facilities, and command and 
control (C2) centers will be a shared responsibility. Under this framework, MP 
units can expect to share the AO with joint, combined, multinational, or 
interagency resources. MP forces must be prepared to conduct a number of 
full-spectrum operations with a variety of government and nongovernmental 
agencies, other services, allied nations, and international agencies. 


1-20. Corps and division commanders and staffs must plan (in advance) the 
transition from a single-service headquarters with joint representation to a 
joint headquarters capable of functioning as a joint task force (JTF) 


FM 3-19.1 


1-8 


headquarters. When tasked to form a JTF headquarters, the corps or division 
must ensure that all of the staff sections and agencies have joint representation 
(see FMs 100-15 and 71-100). To this end, MP planners must ensure that the 
JTF is augmented with the appropriate MP forces and with the appropriate 
echeloned C2. 


1-21. Regardless of the force mix, the MP provide the force with unparalleled, 
multifunctional capabilities. Among these capabilities is the MP’s ability to 
generate firepower or to handle populations such as EPWs/CIs, dislocated 
civilians, and refugees. Additionally, MP expertise in investigations and law 
enforcement enhances the capabilities of other joint, multinational, and 
interagency police and security forces. 


1-22. MP security plans must reflect the joint synergy derived from combining 
the multiple and diverse capabilities of all participants. To capitalize upon 
that synergy, MP leaders must keep an open line of communication and 
coordination to offset the challenges presented by interoperability. Some of 
these interoperability challenges include— 
• 
Differing political objectives. 
• 
Differing capabilities. 
• 
Cultural/language differences. 
• 
Legal and policy constraints. 
• 
Media impacts. 
• 
Compromise of sensitive processes, procedures, and equipment. 
• 
C2. 
• 
Communications (digital- and analog-equipment differences). 


1-23. MP plans must also accommodate differences in planning capabilities, 
as well as differences in doctrine, training, and equipment. The intent is to 
match security missions with force capabilities. MP leaders must understand 
that operations will often involve multinational teams. While US forces 
routinely task-organize, this may be more difficult to accomplish with some 
multinational security forces. This kind of orchestration requires employing 
standardized procedures, communications, equipment, and liaison within the 
constraints of operations security (OPSEC). 


1-24. Coordination is the key to mission accomplishment in multinational and 
interagency operations. A military coordination center or a civil-military 
operations center (CMOC) may meet this coordination requirement. The CMOC 
provides access for nonmilitary agencies desiring military (to include MP/CID) 
assistance and coordination. These nonmilitary agencies may include— 
• 
Government organizations (GOs). 
• 
NGOs. 
• 
International organizations (IOs). 
• 
International humanitarian organizations (IHOs). 
• 
HN authorities and agencies. 


1-25. The introduction of US Army MP forces in any joint, multinational, or 
interagency operation is based on METT-TC and the capabilities they bring to 
the operation. Effective integration of MP forces with other security forces 
reduces redundant functions, clarifies responsibilities, and conserves resources. 


FM 3-19.1 


1-9 


Table 1-1. Unit Descriptions 


MP Unit 
Mission 
Action Elements 
Support Role 
Capabilities (Include But Are Not Limited to 
[See TOEs for Details]) 


Augmentation Needed 
for Mission 
Accomplishment 


DIVISION MP UNITS 


MP Company 
(Airborne 
Division) 


Perform the 5 
MP functions. 
A PM cell and 4 platoons. 
Each platoon has 3 squads and 
each squad has 2 three-man 
teams. 
Total: 24 three-man teams. 


1 platoon deploys 
with each division 
brigade and 
provides DS during 
the assault phase. 
Then platoons 
revert to GS. 


During the assault phase, 6 mounted, mobile or 
fixed-position teams deploy to provide DS for each 
brigade and 6 teams deploy to provide GS near the 
division main CP 
OR 
after the assault phase, 1 division EPW collection 
point (6 teams) and 18 mounted, mobile patrols or 
fixed-position teams provide GS 
OR 
24 mounted, mobile or fixed-position teams are used 
in any combination. 


The division band to pro- 
vide close-in security for 
the division CP or to 
guard EPWs 
AND 
the corps CS MP to con- 
duct combat operations 
within the division rear 
and provide sustained 
MMS, area security, spe- 
cial operations support, 
and escort for evacuating 
EPWs/CIs between divi- 
sion collection points and 
to the corps holding area 
AND 
the corps L&O MP and 
CID to conduct sus- 
tained L&O operations 
and criminal investiga- 
tions 
AND 
division/corps transporta- 
tion assets for evacuation 
of EPWs 


NOTE: Both heavy 
division companies 
require corps CS MP 
augmentation for each 
forward support 
platoon (1 corps MP 
squad per forward 
support platoon). 


MP Company 
(Light Infantry 
Division) 


Perform the 5 
MP functions. 
A PM cell and 3 platoons. 
Each platoon has 3 squads and 
each squad has 2 three-man 
teams. 
Total: 18 three-man teams 


Provide GS for all 
units in the AO. 
Provide screening security for the division main CP 
(6 teams), the division EPW collection point (6 
teams), and 6 mounted, mobile or fixed-position 
teams. 


MP Company 
(Heavy Divi- 
sion)* 


*19333F000 


Perform the 5 
MP functions. 
A PM cell and 2 division support 
platoons. Each platoon has 3 
squads and each squad has a 
squad leader and 3 three-man 
teams 
AND 
3 forward support platoons. Each 
platoon has 2 squads and each 
squad has a squad leader and 3 
three-man teams. 
Total: 36 three-man teams 


2 platoons provide 
GS and 3 platoons 
provide DS. 


Provide screening security for the division main CP 
(6 teams), the division EPW collection point (6 
teams), and 6 mounted, mobile or fixed-position 
teams 
AND EITHER 
3 DS platoons providing their brigade with either 1 
forward EPW collection point (3 teams) and 3 
mounted, mobile or fixed-position teams or 6 teams 
in any combination 
OR 
18 mounted, mobile or fixed-position teams are used 
in any combination. 


MP Company 
(Heavy Divi- 
sion)* 


*19333L000 


Perform the 5 
MP functions. 
A PM cell and 5 platoons. Each 
platoon has 2 squads and each 
squad has 3 three-man teams. 
Total: 36 three-man teams 


3 platoons provide 
GS and 3 platoons 
provide DS. 


Provide screening security for the division main CP 
(6 teams), the division EPW collection point (6 
teams), and 6 mounted, mobile or fixed-position 
teams 
AND EITHER 
3 DS platoons providing their brigade with either 1 
forward EPW collection point (3 teams) and 3 
mounted, mobile or fixed-position teams or 6 teams 
in any combination 
OR 
18 mounted, mobile or fixed-position teams are used 
in any combination. 


FM 3-19.1 


1-10 


MP Unit 
Mission 
Action Elements 
Support Role 
Capabilities (Include But Are Not Limited to 
[See TOEs for Details]) 
Augmentation Needed 
for Mission 
Accomplishment 


MP Company 
(Air Assault 
Division) 


Perform the 5 
MP functions. 
A PM cell and 4 platoons. Each 
platoon has 3 squads and each 
squad has 2 three-man teams. 
Total: 24 three-man teams 


Provide GS for all 
units in the AO. 
24 mounted, mobile or fixed-position teams are used 
in any combination. 
(See augmentation 
needs on previous page.) 


MP COMBAT SUPPORT UNITS 


HHC MP 
Brigade 
Provide C2 and 
coordinate the 
combat, CS, 
and CSS of all 
MP elements 
assigned or 
attached. 


Command and staff elements 
and long-range planning section 
Provide command, 
control, planning, 
and supervision for 
up to 6 MP 
battalions and other 
assigned or 
attached 
subordinate HQ. 


Provide continuous command, control, coordination, 
planning, and supervision for subordinate units. 
None 


HHD MP Bat- 
talion 
(Combat 
Support) 


Provide C2 and 
coordinate the 
combat, CS, 
and CSS of all 
MP elements 
assigned or 
attached. 


Command and staff elements 
plus a support element 
Provide command, 
control, planning, 
and supervision for 
up to 6 MP 
companies and 
other assigned or 
attached 
subordinate HQ. 


Provide continuous command, control, coordination, 
planning, and supervision for subordinate units. 
None 


MP Company 
(Combat 
Support) 


Perform the 5 
MP functions. 
4 platoons with 3 squads. Each 
squad has a squad leader and 3 
three-man teams. 
Total: 36 three-man teams 


Provide GS for all 
units in the AO. 
Provide security for a unified or combined HQ or 
higher HQ or 1 main CP and 1 tactical CP 
OR 
operate 1 EPW holding area (9 teams) and 27 
mounted, mobile or fixed-position teams for use in 
any combination. 


Corps band assets to 
guard EPWs 
AND 
corps transportation for 
evacuation of EPWs 
AND 
external MP to escort 
EPWs 


MP Company 
(Combat 
Support) 


Perform the 5 
MP functions. 
4 platoons with 3 squads. Each 
squad has a squad leader and 3 
three-man teams. 
Total: 36 three-man teams 


Provide GS for all 
units in the AO. 
Provide security for a unified or combined HQ or 
higher HQ or 1 main CP and 1 tactical CP 
OR 
operate 1 EPW holding area (9 teams) and 27 
mounted, mobile or fixed-position teams for use in 
any combination. 


Corps band assets to 
guard EPWs 
AND 
corps transportation for 
evacuation of EPWs 
AND 
external MP to escort 
EPWs 


MP Company 
Arctic Support 
Augmentation 
Detachment 


Augment MP 
units when 
operating in an 
arctic 
environment. 


1 mechanic (63B10) 
Provide mobility 
support to MP units. 
Provide support as designated by the commander. 
None 


MP Detach- 
ment 
(C2) 


Provide 
command and 
administrative 
personnel for 
MP law 
enforcement 
teams. 


19503LA has a platoon HQS; 
3 individuals. 
19503LD has a commander and 
support personnel; 8 individuals. 


Provide L&O. 
19503LA provides 
platoon-level C2. 
19503LD provides 
company-level 
command, control, 
and support. 


Commands and controls law enforcement teams, 
investigations teams, MWD teams, and physical- 
security teams. 


None 


Table 1-1. Unit Descriptions (continued) 


FM 3-19.1 


1-11 


MP Unit 
Mission 
Action Elements 
Support Role 
Capabilities (Include But Are Not Limited to 
[See TOEs for Details]) 


Augmentation Needed 
for Mission 
Accomplishment 


MP 
Detachment 
(Old Guard) 


Perform the 5 
MP functions. 
4 squads. Each squad has 3 
three-man teams. 
Total: 12 teams 


Support the HHC 
old guard battalion. 
Provide support as directed by the commander. 
None 


MP LAW AND ORDER (L&O) UNITS 


MP HQ Team 
Provide C2, 
personnel 
administration, 
and logistical 
support to 
attached L&O 
augmentation 
teams. 


Commander and support person- 
nel 
Provide L&O. 
Provide C2, personnel administration, and logistical 
support to attached L&O augmentation teams. 
None 


MP 
Operations 
Team 


Provide 
mission 
supervision, 
staff planning, 
and technical 
supervision 
required to 
support the 
L&O mission. 


L&O operations officer and oper- 
ations staff 
Provide L&O. 
Provide overall mission supervision, planning, 
employment, and coordination of support. Provide 
technical supervision and administrative support of 
MPI, TAI, and force protection MP. Provide an 
evidence custodian/police intelligence NCO to be 
responsible for confiscated property used in criminal 
offenses and to receive and collect the initial analysis 
of criminal/operational information/intelligence. 


None 


MP Desk or 
Desk and 
Record Team 


Serve as the 
primary control 
point for L&O- 
related 
incidents and 
operations 
initiated by MP 
patrols. 


2 three-man teams 
Provide L&O. 
Receive/record complaints, dispatch investigative 
persons, maintain control of offenders/detained 
persons, maintain the status of investigations, 
prepare reports, and provide criminal data to the 
police intelligence NCO for analysis. 


None 


MP Traffic 
Accident 
Investigations 
Team 


Provide the 
technical 
capability to 
investigate 
traffic 
accidents. 


1 two- or three-man team: 
19517AD00 has 1 two-man team. 
19523LE00 has 1 three-man 
team. 


Provide L&O. 
Augment MP capabilities to enforce MSR 
regulations; man checkpoints, roadblocks, and 
dismount points; patrol traffic areas; and perform 
traffic escort duties. 


The 19517AD00 accident 
investigation team is 
dependent on the 
supported unit for 
transportation. 


MP 
Investigation 
Team 


Provide the 
technical 
capability to 
investigate 
criminal 
incidents and 
conduct 
surveillance 
operations. 


One, two, or three-man teams: 
19517AE has 1 two-man team. 
19533LA has 1 one-man team. 
19533LB has 1 one-man team. 
19533LC has 1 three-man team. 


Provide L&O. 
Investigate criminal incidents, conduct surveillance, 
work with HN military and civilian police, and collect 
criminal and operational intelligence. 
19533LA00 provides supervision for the teams. 
19533LB00 provides investigative support for popu- 
lations of not less than 700 troops. 
19533LC00 provides investigative support for 
populations of not less than 2,100 troops. 


Dependent on the 
supported unit for 
transportation 


Table 1-1. Unit Descriptions (continued) 


FM 3-19.1 


1-12 


MP Unit 
Mission 
Action Elements 
Support Role 
Capabilities (Include But Are Not Limited to 
[See TOEs for Details]) 


Augmentation Needed 
for Mission 
Accomplishment 


MP Force 
Protection and 
Physical- 
Security 
Teams 


Provide the 
expertise and 
technical 
capability to 
assist units in 
safeguarding 
personnel, 
equipment, and 
facilities. 


One, two, or three-man teams: 
19517AF has 1 two-man team. 
19593LA has 1 three-man team. 
19593LB has 1 one-man team. 


Provide L&O and 
area security. 
Conduct vulnerability assessments and identify and 
prioritize critical facilities and key terrain within the 
AO. Identify mission-essential activities that are 
vulnerable to criminal acts or disruptive activities. 
Ensure that activities are inspected to determine if 
safeguards are adequate. Assist base/base cluster 
commanders with the development of internal 
defense plans. 


The 19517AF is 
dependent on the 
19517AB operations 
team for transportation. 


MP Detach- 
ment 
(Patrol 
Supervision 
Team) 


Provide 
supervision for 
3 MP teams. 


1 MP NCO 
Provide L&O. 
Plan, direct, and supervise the employment of 
assigned or attached MP teams. 
Dependent on the 
supported unit for 
transportation 


MP Detach- 
ment 
(Motor and 
Dismounted 
Patrol Team) 


Perform L&O 
operations. 
1 three-man team 
Provide L&O. 
Protect designated personnel or facilities. Perform 
route and area reconnaissance, enforce MSR 
regulations, provide refugee and straggler control, 
and disseminate information. Perform peacekeeping 
operations to maintain surveillance over an area, 
observe activities, and report findings. Preserve or 
establish L&O. Apprehend absentees or deserters 
(US military personnel) in conjunction with civil law 
enforcement agencies. 


The dismounted patrol 
team is dependent on the 
supported unit for 
transportation, when 
required. 


MP Detach- 
ment 
(Registration 
Team) 


Performvehicle 
and firearm 
registration. 


1 three-man team 
Provide L&O. 
Service up to 10,000 personnel for registration of 
individuals, vehicles, and firearms on a closed post 
or area. Issue credentials prescribing limits of 
circulation and privileges. Process up to 50 
personnel daily for fingerprints and photography 
services. 


Dependent on the 
supported unit for 
transportation 


Senior Military 
Customs 
Inspector 
Supervisor 


Perform 
technical 
supervision, 
staff planning, 
and 
coordination for 
customs 
inspection 
teams. 


1 MP NCO 
Provide L&O. 
Supervise two senior military customs teams to 
ensure that personnel, equipment, and material 
meet customs, immigration, Department of Agricul- 
ture, and other federal agency requirements for units 
and personnel redeploying to the US. 


None 


Table 1-1. Unit Descriptions (continued) 


FM 3-19.1 


1-13 


MP Unit 
Mission 
Action Elements 
Support Role 
Capabilities (Include But Are Not Limited to 
[See TOEs for Details]) 
Augmentation Needed 
for Mission 
Accomplishment 


Senior Military 
Customs 
Inspection 
Team 


Conduct 
customs 
inspectionsand 
train and 
supervise 
redeploying 
unit personnel 
to augment US 
customs 
inspectors. 


1 five-man team 
Provide L&O. 
Conduct inspections and advise redeploying units. 
Train selected individuals from the redeploying unit 
to augment US customs efforts. 


NOTE: One team supports one port of embarkation. 


The redeploying unit 
undergoing customs 
inspection, to augment 
US Customs efforts. The 
number of personnel is 
proportional to the size of 
the unit. 


MILITARY WORKING DOG (MWD) UNITS 


MWD Kennel 
Master Team 
Supervise 
MWD teams. 
One- or two-man team. 
19537AA has 1 two-man team. 
19583LG has 1 one-man team. 


Provide L&O, area 
security, and I/R 
operations support. 


Supervise, plan, and coordinate MWD operations 
and support requirements. Provide MWD handler/ 
canine proficiency certification. 


None 


MWD 
Explosive, 
Narcotics, and 
Patrol Team 


Detect 
explosives and 
controlled 
substances 
and search for, 
detect, and 
control 
personnel in 
support of 
crime scene 
searches. 
Provide 
personal 
protection, 
MOUT, health 
and welfare 
inspections, 
and I/R and 
customs 
operations. 


One-man/one-dog team. 
The 19537A000-series TOEs 
have 3 teams each. 
The 19583L000-series TOEs 
have 1 team each. 


Provide L&O, area 
security, and I/R 
support. 


The 19537A-series dog teams are capable of provid- 
ing a 24-hour explosive, narcotics, and tracking han- 
dler/dog requirement or three concurrent short- 
duration missions each requiring 1 handler/dog 
team. The duration of the missions will vary based 
on the climate, the environment, and the individual 
dog’s ability. The 19583L-series dog teams provide 
short- duration missions based on the dog’s ability. 
Explosive and narcotics teams provide MWD patrol 
support when not employed with explosive and nar- 
cotics detection. 


None 


MILITARY POLICE INTERNMENT/RESETTLEMENT (I/R) UNITS 
MP Command 
(I/R) 
Provide 
command, 
control, staff 
planning, and 
supervision of 
I/R operations 
performed by 
all assigned or 
attached 
elements. 


Command and staff elements 
Provide I/R 
operations support. 
Provide command, control, and staff planning for 2 or 
more MP brigades. 
MP IRIC 
AND 
MP EPW evacuation 
detachment 


Table 1-1. Unit Descriptions (continued) 


FM 3-19.1 


1-14 


MP Unit 
Mission 
Action Elements 
Support Role 
Capabilities (Include But Are Not Limited to 
[See TOEs for Details]) 


Augmentation Needed 
for Mission 
Accomplishment 


MP Brigade (I/R) 
Provide 
command, 
control, and 
staff planning 
for I/R 
operations 
performed by 
all assigned or 
attached MP 
elements. 


Command and staff elements 
Provide I/R 
operations support. 
Provide command, control, and staff planning for 2 
to 7 MP I/R battalions or up to 21 MP I/R battalions 
when augmented by 7 brigade liaison detachments 
(BLDs). Plan and provide staff supervision of I/R 
collection and evacuation operations. Coordinate 
with HN military territorial organizations and civilian 
police authorities, nongovernment organizations, 
private volunteer organizations, and US federal 
agencies on I/R matters. Provide coordination and 
support for out-of-theater evacuation of EPWs, if 
required. Support posthostilities operations. 


MP IRIC 
AND 
MP EPW evacuation 
detachment 
AND 
MP I/R BLD (TOE 
19453LD00) 


NOTE: The BLD 
expands the staff 
planning and 
coordination 
capabilities on a ratio 
of 1 BLD to 3 MP I/R 
battalions. 


MP Battalion (I/R) Provide 
command, staff 
planning, 
administration, 
and logistical 
support for the 
operation of an 
I/R facility. 


Command and staff elements 
Provide I/R 
operations support. 
Operate an internment facility for either EPWs/CIs 
or DCs or a confinement facility for US prisoners. 
(Never more that one category at the same time.) 


MP detachment (I/R) 
(EPW/CI) for EPW/CI/DC 
internment missions 
AND 
MP detachment (I/R) 
(confinement) for US 
prisoner confinement 
missions 
AND 
MP company (EG) for 
security of the evacua- 
tion and/or movement of 
US prisoners or EPWs/ 
CIs/DCs 
AND 
MP company (guard) for 
prisoner guard services 
AND 
Corps/EAC 
transportation assets for 
movement of EPWs/CIs/ 
DCs 


Table 1-1. Unit Descriptions (continued) 


FM 3-19.1 


1-15 


MP Unit 
Mission 
Action Elements 
Support Role 
Capabilities (Include But Are Not Limited to 
[See TOEs for Details]) 


Augmentation Needed 
for Mission 
Accomplishment 


MP Detach- 
ment (I/R) 
(EPW/CI) 


Augment the MP 
battalion (I/R) to 
provide 
supervision, 
administration, 
combat health 
support, and 
logistical support 
for operating an 
internment 
facility interning 
EPWs/CIs or 
housing DCs. 


2 compound control sections 
(2 three-man teams), a work 
project section (1 two-man team), 
a personnel section, and a supply 
section. 


Provide I/R 
operations support. 
Provide command, control, and supervision of up to 
1,000 EPWs/CIs or 2,000 DCs. Provide supply and 
subsistence support (to include supervision of food 
preparation) for up to 1,000 EPWs/CIs or 2,000 DCs. 
Direct the activities related to assigning and 
supervising work projects for EPWs/CIs. Augment 
the MP I/R battalion in processing and maintaining 
records for up to 1,000 EPWs/CIs or 2,000 DCs. 


MP company (guard) for 
prisoner guard services 


MP Company 
(Escort 
Guard) 


Provide 
supervisory and 
security 
personnel for 
evacuating and/ 
or moving 
EPWs/CIs. 


4 platoons with 3 squads each. 
Each squad has a squad leader 
and 3 three-man teams. 
Total: 36 teams 


Provide I/R 
operations support. 
Provide security for the movement of the following 
numbers of POWs or CIs by the methods indicated: 
Marching - 1,000 to 1,500. 
Vehicle - 1,500 to 2,000. 
Rail - 2,000 to 3,000. 
Air - 2,125 to 2,406. 


Corps/EAC 
transportation assets for 
movement of EPWs/CIs 


MP Company 
(Guard) 
Provide guards 
for EPWs/CIs or 
US prisoners, 
installations, and 
facilities. 


3 platoons with 3 squads each. 
Each squad has a squad leader 
and 2 five-man teams 
Total: 18 teams. 


Provide I/R 
operations support. 
Provide security for a confinement facility containing 
up to 500 US military prisoners. Provide guards for 
securing 1 EPW/CI compound containing up to 
2,000 EPWs/CIs or 4,000 DCs. Provide security 
guards for 3 railway terminals, each having up to 8 
tracks. (Includes EPW/CI rail movement operations 
and protection of sensitive material within the 
terminal.) Provide guards for 1 military installation or 
facility up to 240,000 square yards in size, containing 
sensitive material. (This unit can provide guards for 
material transit.) 


None 


MP I/R 
Processing 
Squad 


Process EPWs/ 
CIs. 
1 squad leader and 1 eight-man 
processing squad 
Provide I/R 
operations support. 
Augment the I/R 
battalion processing 
capability to meet 
operational 
requirements. 


Provide processing capabilities of about 8 EPWs/CIs 
per hour. 
None 


Table 1-1. Unit Descriptions (continued) 


FM 3-19.1 


1-16 


MP Unit 
Mission 
Action Elements 
Support Role 
Capabilities (Include But Are Not Limited to 
[See TOEs for Details]) 


Augmentation Needed 
for Mission 
Accomplishment 


I/R Brigade 
Liaison 
Expand the MP 
brigade (I/R) or 
ASCC C2 
capabilities. 


Liaison officer and support staff 
Provide I/R 
operations support. 
When assigned to the MP I/R brigade, provide staff 
augmentation that expands the brigade’s staff 
planning, coordination, and C2 capabilities for 3 MP 
I/R battalions. When assigned to the ASCC, provide 
I/R staff augmentation and a liaison link with allied/ 
HN forces to ensure that the care and handling of US 
captured EPWs/CIs is in compliance with the 
Geneva Conventions. 


None 


I/R Camp 
Liaison Team 
Provide 
continuous 
accountability 
of EPWs/CIs 
captured by US 
forces and 
transferred to 
an allied/HN for 
internment. 


Liaison officer and support staff 
Provide I/R 
operations support. 
Provide advice, as requested, to commanders and 
staffs of allied/HN-operated internment facilities. 
Verify arrival, forward records, and provide 
continuous accountability for US captured EPWs/CIs 
interned in allied/HN facilities. Monitor prisoner 
treatment to ensure compliance with the Geneva 
Conventions. Receive/certify allied/HN requests for 
reimbursement of expenses associated with 
interning EPWs/CIs captured by US forces. 


None 


I/RProcessing 
Liaison Team 
Process and 
verify the trans- 
fer of EPWs/ 
CIs captured 
by US forces to 
a allied/HN 
facility. 


Liaison officer and support staff 
Provide I/R 
operations support. 
Provide processing and transfer capability for US- 
captured prisoners to an allied/HN EPW/CI facility. 
None 


MP 
Detachment 
(EPW 
Evacuation) 


Provide 
evacuation 
support of 
EPWs. 


EPW coordination officer and 
staff plus 10 one-man POD/POE 
teams and 3 two-man POE 
teams 


Provide I/R 
operations support. 
Coordinate administrative, logistical, and 
transportation support for up to 7 PODs and 6 POEs 
used for out-of-theater EPW evacuation and the 
escort guard personnel that support the movements. 
Coordinate for theater security at PODs/POEs and 
intermediate refuel points. 


Responsible POD/POE 
security forces 


Table 1-1. Unit Descriptions (continued) 


FM 3-19.1 


1-17 


MP Unit 
Mission 
Action Elements 
Support Role 
Capabilities (Include But Are Not Limited to 
[See TOEs for Details]) 


Augmentation Needed 
for Mission 
Accomplishment 


MP 
Detachment 
(Internment 
Resettlement 
Information 
Cener [IRIC]) 


Provide a US 
central agency 
in each theater 
of war to 
receive, 
process, 
maintain, 
disseminate, 
and transmit 
the required 
information and 
data relating to 
EPWs, 
American 
POWs, CIs, 
and DCs within 
the theater. 


Command and staff personnel 
Provide I/R 
operations support. 
Serve as the single 
source for collection 
and storage of 
EPW/CI information 
in theater. Forward 
information to the 
National Prisoner of 
War Information 
Center at DA. 


Collect, process, and disseminate (to authorized 
agencies) information regarding interned personnel 
detained in theater and those released to the 
custody of allied/HN authorities within theater. 
Receive, document, and disseminate to the theater 
commander information received regarding 
American POWs, CIs, and foreign nationals who are 
captured, missing, or otherwise detained. Receive, 
store, and dispose of personal property belonging to 
interned personnel who have died, escaped, or been 
repatriated and any property belonging to enemy 
soldiers killed in action that is not disposed of 
through grave registration channels. 


None 


MP 
Detachment 
(I/R) 
(Confine- 
ment) 


Augment an 
MP battalion 
(I/R) in 
operating a 
confinement 
facility. Provide 
supervision, 
administration, 
combat health 
support, and 
logistical 
support of US 
military 
prisoners. 


Corrections officer and confine- 
ment facility staff 
Provide I/R 
operations support. 
Provides a control team for the command, control, 
and supervision of US military prisoners and a disci- 
plinary guard team to supervise custodial personnel 
for a maximum custody of 500 prisoners. Provide 
administration, health service, supply, and food ser- 
vice personnel to augment the battalion in providing 
these services for internees. (The food service per- 
sonnel supervise and train US military prisoners 
working in the internee dining facility.) 


MP battalion (I/R) for 
command, staff, plan- 
ning, and operational 
support 
AND 
MP company (guard) for 
prisoner guard services 


Table 1-1. Unit Descriptions (continued) 


FM 3-19.1 


1-18 


MP Unit 
Mission 
Action Elements 
Support Role 
Capabilities (Include But Are Not Limited to 
[See TOEs for Details]) 


Augmentation Needed 
for Mission 
Accomplishment 


MP 
Confinement 
Facility 
Detachment 


Provide C2, 
staff planning, 
administration, 
and logistical 
support for a 
confinement 
facility for US 
military prison- 
ers. 


Commander and facility staff 
Provide I/R 
operations support. 
Provide command, control, and administrative 
support for a confinement facility. 
MP guard company to 
provide exterior perime- 
ter security and required 
guard support to the con- 
finement facility 
AND 
MP correctional team 
supervisor 
(TOE19553LE) to pro- 
vide supervision of the 
guard force 
AND 
MP correctional team 
work supervisor (TOE 
19553LF) to provide 
supervision of prisoners 


MP 
Correctional 
Team 
Supervisor 


Provide 
correctional 
supervision of 
prisoner work 
guard forces 
within a 
confinement 
facility. 


2 two-man teams 
Provide I/R 
operations support. 
Provide correctional supervision to guard force 
personnel and US military prisoners within a 
modular-configured confinement facility. 


None 


MP 
Correctional 
Team Work 
Supervisor 


Provide direct 
control and 
supervision of 
military 
prisonerswithin 
a confinement 
facility. 


1 two-man team 
Provide I/R 
operation support. 
Provide correctional control, supervisory functions, 
and escort duties for military prisoners within a 
modular-configured confinement facility. 


None 


MILITARY POLICE CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION (CID) UNITS 


MP Group 
(CID) 
Provide 
command, 
control, staff 
planning, and 
supervision for 
all CID 
elements within 
the theater. 


Command and staff elements 
Provide L&O. 
Provide command, control, staff planning, and super- 
vision over all CID elements within the theater. 


NOTE: The Criminal Investigation Command is a 
stovepipe organization. 


None 


Table 1-1. Unit Descriptions (continued) 


FM 3-19.1 


1-19 


MP Unit 
Mission 
Action Elements 
Support Role 
Capabilities (Include But Are Not Limited to 
[See TOEs for Details]) 


Augmentation Needed 
for Mission 
Accomplishment 


MP Battalion 
(CID) 
Provide 
command, 
control, staff 
planning, and 
supervision for 
all assigned or 
attached CID 
elements. 


Command and staff elements 
Provide L&O. 
Provides command, control, staff planning, and 
supervision over all assigned and attached CID 
elements. 


None 


MP 
Detachment 
(CID) HQ Cell 


Provide C2, 
evidence 
custody 
control, and 
investigative 
administration 
support. 
Coordinate for 
personnel 
administration 
and logistic 
support. 


Commander and support staff 
Provide L&O. 
Provide C2 of assigned CID SA sections and/or 
teams performing all CID operations in their area of 
responsibility. 


None 


MP Detach- 
ment (CID) 
Provide 
criminal 
investigative 
support to 
Army 
commanders at 
all echelons. 


2-man teams. The number of 
teams varies by organization and 
is as follows: 
DSE heavy - 4 
DSE light - 3 
Section A - 4 
Section B - 4 
Supervisory team - 1 
Senior team - 1 
SA team - 1 


Provide L&O. 
Supervise and conduct criminal investigations. 
When directed, MP CS, 
L&O, and MWD support 


Table 1-1. Unit Descriptions (continued) 


Battle Command 2-1 


Chapter 2 


Battle Command 


Command is the authority a commander in military service lawfully 
exercises over subordinates by virtue of rank and assignment. Leaders 
possessing command authority strive to use it with firmness, care, 
and skill. 


FM 101-5-1 


Battle command is the exercise of command in an operation against a 
hostile, thinking opponent. Battle command includes visualizing the 
current state and the desired end state, then formulating concepts of 
operations to get from one state to the other at the least cost. In addition to 
visualizing and formulating concepts, battle command encompasses 
assigning missions; prioritizing and allocating resources; selecting the 
critical time and place to act; and knowing how and when to make 
adjustments in the fight. Battle command enables MP commanders to 
lead, prioritize, and allocate assets required in support of the Army 
commander. MP commanders must observe, orient, decide, and act on their 
decisions quickly. Information is the key element in the battle-command 
process; therefore, the commander must have accurate and timely 
information upon which to base his decisions. 


OVERVIEW 


2-1. The battle command of MP units is typically decentralized due to the 
nature of their CS functions, METT-TC, and the needs of the Army 
commander. This places the burden of sound, timely decision making to the 
lowest levels. MP leaders must develop a keen sense of situational awareness 
and visualization, and they must constantly track the actions of supported 
units. 


BATTLEFIELD VISUALIZATION 


2-2. The ability to visualize the battlefield is a critical element of battle 
command. Battlefield visualization is an essential leadership attribute and is 
critical to accomplishing the mission. It is learned and attained through 
training, practice, experience, technical and tactical knowledge, and available 
battle-command technologies. It results when the MP commander 
understands the higher commander's intent, his assigned mission, the enemy, 
and the friendly force’s capabilities and limitations. See Appendix D for 
further information on command technologies. 


FM 3-19.1 


2-2 Battle Command 


2-3. Battlefield visualization includes the MP commander's view of what his 
forces will do and the resources needed to do the mission. He envisions a 
sequence of actions that will cause his MP forces to perform at the desired end 
state. Ultimately, the MP commander's battlefield vision evolves into his 
intent and helps him develop his concept of operations. 


COMMANDER'S INTENT 


2-4. The commander's intent is a key part of Army orders. It is a clear, concise 
statement of what the force must do to succeed with respect to the enemy, the 
terrain, and the desired end state. It provides the link between the mission 
and the concept of operations by stating key tasks. These tasks, along with the 
mission, are the basis for subordinates to exercise initiative when 
unanticipated opportunities arise or when the original concept of operations 
no longer applies. MP leaders at all echelons must ensure that the mission 
and the commander's intent are understood two echelons down (see FM 
101-5). 


CONCEPT OF OPERATIONS 


2-5. 
The commander's intent does not include the method by which the MP 
units will accomplish the mission. This method is called the commander's 
concept of operations. It must— 
• 
Convey the commander's vision of how to accomplish the mission in a 
manner that allows his subordinates maximum initiative. 
• 
Build around intelligence gathering and the precise employment of 
MP resources. 
• 
Provide the basis for task organization, scheme of maneuver, terrain 
organization, tasks to subordinates, and synchronization. 


COMMAND AND CONTROL RELATIONSHIPS 


2-6. MP units are assigned to, attached to, or placed under the operational 
control (OPCON) of MP or other units they support. OPCON is the authority 
to perform command functions over subordinate forces. This includes 
organizing and employing commands and forces, assigning tasks, designing 
objectives, and giving authoritative direction necessary to accomplish the 
mission. MP C2 relationships may be changed briefly to provide better support 
for a specific operation or to meet the needs of the supported commander. MP 
units may be placed under the OPCON of another unit commander for short- 
term operations. The MP unit remains in this relationship only as long as it is 
needed for that operation. 


MP support to the Bosnian municipal elections consisted of one division and two 
corps MP companies. These MP assets, attached to Task Force (TF) Eagle, were 
task-organized from different sources. The division MP company and the PM cell 
were organic to TF Eagle's mechanized infantry division headquarters, but the two 
corps MP units were from US Army Forces Command (FORSCOM) MP battalions 
in CONUS. 


FM 3-19.1 


Battle Command 2-3 


SUPPORT RELATIONSHIPS 


2-7. MP units on the battlefield provide two types of support—general 
support (GS) and direct support (DS). Corps and EAC MP units provide GS to 
their respective corps/EAC subordinate commands. Light, airborne, and air- 
assault MP companies provide GS to their respective divisions. Heavy-division 
MP companies provide GS to the division rear and DS to the division's 
subordinate brigades. 


STAFF RELATIONSHIPS 


2-8. The PM for each level of command is that command's advisor on MP 
combat, CS, and CSS operations. The PM— 
• 
Advises the commander and staff about MP abilities/capabilities. 
• 
Supervises the preparation of plans and dictates policies. 
• 
Coordinates MP operations. 
• 
Assists and supervises the interaction of supporting and supported 
units. 
• 
Reviews current MP operations. 
• 
Coordinates with allied forces and HN military and civil police. 
• 
Ensures that MP plans and operations supporting the commander's 
tactical plan are carried out. 
• 
Recommends when and where to concentrate the command's MP 
assets. 
• 
Supervises or monitors MP support in the command's AO. 


2-9. The PM works daily with the commander and staff officers who employ 
MP resources and whose AORs influence MP support. The PM works closely 
with the coordinating staff at the appropriate command level to coordinate 
MP support. He ensures that MP planning is practical and flexible, that plans 
are coordinated with staff sections and subordinate commands, and that plans 
reflect manpower and resources needed by MP. (This includes the need for C2, 
fire support, equipment, and supplies. It also includes construction, 
communication, transportation, and aviation support.) As new information is 
received, the PM reviews, updates, and modifies the plans. He ensures that 
the echelon commander gets the necessary MP support. 


2-10. In the absence of specific directions or orders, the PM plans the use of 
MP assets. He evaluates the current operations and projects the future 
courses of action (COAs). He bases his plans on assumptions consistent with 
the commander's intent and a thorough knowledge of the situation and 
mission. The PM considers— 
• 
METT-TC. 
• 
Current estimates developed by the intelligence preparation of the 
battlefield (IPB) and the police information assessment process 
(PIAP). 
• 
The environment within the AO. This includes the climate, the 
terrain, and obstacles. It also includes the legal authority and status 
of the force; the width, depth, size, and location of built-up areas; and 
the attitudes and abilities of the local populace. 


FM 3-19.1 


2-4 Battle Command 


• 
The types of units operating in the area (to include joint, combined, 
multinational, and interagency units) and the missions and 
capabilities of these units. This knowledge is imperative to 
understand their capability to counter threats in their area. 
• 
The specific missions of MP units in the area and the impact that rear- 
area security operations will have on the ability of these units to 
perform other functions. 
• 
Personnel, vehicles, and equipment in the MP units. 


2-11. Coordination and communication between the PM and Army 
commanders is essential. Such actions ensure timely and efficient MP support 
to all levels of command during any operation. The informal, technical chain 
of coordination is an open line of communication between PMs at different 
echelons. The informal chain of coordination fosters cooperation and help 
among the MP elements at each echelon. For instance, when the division PM 
needs more assets to accomplish added missions, he initiates coordination 
with the corps PM. If the corps PM can provide support, the division PM 
formalizes his request for assistance through the division Assistant Chief of 
Staff, G3 (Operations and Plans) (G3). 


The Threat 3-1 


Chapter 3 


The Threat 


In the 40-odd years of the Cold War, in many locations around the 
world, the Army performed a deterrent role as part of the containment 
strategy. In other places, at other times, the Army fulfilled the 
Nation's expectation in operations too small to be called "wars," 
although no less dangerous. To the soldier on the ground, Operations 
Urgent Fury in Grenada and Just Cause in Panama were 
indistinguishable from combat operations of their forefathers. 
Operations Provide Comfort in Iraq and Restore Hope in Somalia, 
although peace operations, also proved to be dangerous. 


FM 100-1 


The end of the Cold War has reduced, but not eliminated, the most 
immediate threat to the security of the US and other western nations. 
However, the absence of a dominant, identifiable threat has produced a far 
more complex and confusing strategic environment than the one that was 
present during the Cold War. Forward-deployed and CONUS-based 
ARFOR and civilians are and will continue to be engaged in a range of 
military actions. These actions stem from deterring conflicts to conducting 
peacetime engagement operations to providing support to civil agencies at 
home and abroad. 


OVERVIEW 


3-1. During the past decade, the US has deployed forces in multiple 
operations that have included crisis response in combat situations as well as 
participation in noncombat activities. The Army’s presence in South Korea, 
Saudi Arabia, and Kuwait and its deployments to Somalia, Haiti, Bosnia, and 
Kosovo are clear indicators that the military must be prepared to face not only 
the traditional threat, but also a nontraditional, nonecheloned enemy. To 
support Army commanders successfully, MP leaders must understand the 
nature and complexity of these threats and how they can potentially affect the 
desired strategic, operational, and tactical end states. 


REAR-AREA AND SUSTAINMENT OPERATIONS 


3-2. The rear area for any particular command is the area extending forward 
from its rear boundary to the rear of the area assigned to the next lower level 
of command. This area is provided primarily for the performance of support 
functions. Operations in the rear area assure freedom of action and continuity 
of operations, sustainment, and C2. Sustainment operations are those that 
enable shaping and decisive operations by assuring freedom of action and 


FM 3-19.1 


3-2 The Threat 


continuity of operations, CSS, and C2 (see FM 3-0). Sustainment operations 
include the following elements: 
• 
CSS. 
• 
Rear-area and base security. 
• 
Movement control. 
• 
Terrain management. 
• 
Infrastructure development. 


3-3. During the Cold War, the danger to rear areas included forces that would 
be deployed in support of major soviet-style operations. The adversaries using 
the soviet model could be expected to engage in intense combat activity in 
their enemy's rear area. Their forces were prepared to penetrate into the 
enemy's rear and to attack and destroy its reserve forces and rear-area 
installations. To protect the rear areas, the MP were among the first mobile 
fighting forces available to the battlefield commander and thus, a source of 
combat power. Today, the Army commander uses the MP's flexibility and their 
modular-force training, adaptability, and mobility to serve as a combat 
multiplier throughout his entire AO. During sustainment operations, the MP 
perform all functions to ensure freedom of maneuver in support of the overall 
operational effort. 


3-4. Failure to protect our forces during sustainment operations normally 
results in failure of the entire operation. Sustainment operations determine 
how fast ARFOR reconstitute and how far they can exploit success. The 
likelihood of MP units encountering the enemy and engaging in direct combat 
(not only in the rear area, but also during sustainment operations) cannot be 
underestimated. 


3-5. Threats to rear-area and sustainment operations exist throughout the 
full spectrum of military operations. These threats may be related or 
independently engaged, but their effects are frequently cumulative. Threats to 
rear-area and sustainment operations are usually theater-dependent and are 
not limited to those outlined in this manual. Joint Publication (JP) 3-10 
further discusses the threat in the rear area. Although JP 3-10 defines the 
threat in the context of a JRA, MP leaders can expect the same level of activity 
anywhere that US forces are deployed. 


RECEPTION, STAGING, ONWARD MOVEMENT, AND INTEGRATION 
OPERATIONS 


3-6. Reception, staging, onward movement, and integration (RSOI) operations 
consist of essential and interrelated processes in the AO that transform 
arriving personnel and materiel into forces capable of meeting operational 
requirements. During RSOI operations, the threat encountered will depend 
mostly on the type of entry, the nature of the operation, and the enemy. During 
major contingencies, forces deploy from power-projection platforms within the 
US or forward bases. The PM must plan MP support during the initial stages 
of the deployment to ensure the protection of follow-on forces and the 
detection of potential threats (see FM 100-17-3). 


3-7. MP support to RSOI operations includes, but is not limited to— 


FM 3-19.1 


The Threat 3-3 


• 
Conducting AS operations to counter or prevent enemy actions against 
marshalling and staging areas. 
• 
Conducting convoy, airport, and rail security operations. 
• 
Conducting populace- and resource-control operations. 
• 
Conducting other physical-security and force-protection measures. 
• 
Conducting other MP functions (as determined by the PM). 


THREAT LEVELS 


3-8. The threat is divided into three levels. These levels provide a general 
description and categorization of threat activities, identify the defense 
requirements to counter them, and establish a common reference for planning 
guidelines. MP leaders must understand that this does not imply that threat 
activities will occur in a specific sequence or that there is a necessary 
interrelationship between each level. 


LEVEL I 


3-9. Level I threats include the following types of individuals or activities: 
• 
Enemy-controlled agents. Enemy-controlled agents are a potential 
threat throughout the rear area. Their primary missions include 
espionage, sabotage, subversion, and criminal activities. Their 
activities span the range of military operations and may increase 
during both war and military operations other than war (MOOTW). 
These activities may include assassinating or kidnapping key military 
or civilian personnel or guiding special-purpose individuals or teams 
to targets in the rear area. 
• 
Enemy sympathizers. Civilians sympathetic to the enemy may 
become significant threats to US and multinational operations. They 
may be the most difficult to neutralize because they are normally not 
part of an established enemy-agent network, and their actions will be 
random and unpredictable. During war and MOOTW, indigenous 
groups sympathetic to the enemy or those simply opposed to the US 
can be expected to provide assistance, information, and shelter to 
guerrilla and enemy unconventional or special-purpose forces 
operating in the rear area. 
• 
Terrorism. Terrorists are among the most difficult threats to 
neutralize and destroy. Their actions span the full spectrum of 
military operations. 
• 
Civil disturbances. Civil disturbances, such as demonstrations and 
riots, may pose a direct or indirect threat to military operations. 
Although this threat may not be of great impact during war, it may 
significantly change and affect MOOTW. 


LEVEL II 


3-10. Level II threats include the following types of forces: 
• 
Guerilla forces. Irregular and predominantly indigenous forces 
conducting guerrilla warfare can pose a serious threat to military 


FM 3-19.1 


3-4 The Threat 


forces and civilians. They can cause significant disruptions to the 
orderly conduct of the local government and services. 
• 
Unconventional forces. Special-operations forces (SOF) are highly 
trained in unconventional-warfare techniques. They are normally 
inserted surreptitiously into the rear area before the onset of an 
armed conflict. They establish and activate espionage networks, 
collect intelligence, carry out specific sabotage missions, develop 
target lists, and conduct damage assessments of targets struck. 
• 
Small tactical units. Specially organized reconnaissance elements 
are capable of conducting raids and ambushes in addition to their 
primary reconnaissance and intelligence-gathering missions. Small 
(size or capability), bypassed conventional units, as well as other 
potential threat forces, are also capable of conducting raids and 
ambushes to disrupt operations. 


LEVEL III 


3-11. Level III threats are made up of conventional forces. Potential threat 
forces are capable of projecting combat power rapidly by land, air, or sea deep 
into the rear area. Specific examples include airborne, heliborne, and 
amphibious operations; large, combined-arms, ground-forces operations; and 
bypassed units and infiltration operations involving large numbers of 
individuals or small groups infiltrated into the rear area, regrouped at 
predetermined times and locations, and committed against priority targets. 
Level III forces may use a combination of the following tactics as a precursor 
to a full-scale offensive operation: 
• 
Air or missile attack. Threat forces may be capable of launching an 
air or missile attack throughout the rear area. It is often difficult to 
distinguish quickly between a limited or full-scale attack before 
impact; therefore, protective measures will normally be based on the 
maximum threat capability. 
• 
Nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) attack. Commanders 
must be aware that NBC munitions may be used in conjunction with 
air, missile, or other conventional-force attacks. The NBC weapons 
could also be used at Level I or II by terrorists or unconventional 
forces in order to accomplish their political or military objectives. 


THREAT-LEVEL MATRIX 


3-12. Table 3-1 lists the threat levels and their likely appropriate responses. 
The threat levels listed are based on the type of threat. The table should not 
be construed as restricting the response options to any particular threat. 


THREAT PRIORITIES 


3-13. The threat will attempt to perform the following operations against 
targets in the rear area: 
• 
Detect and identify targets. 
• 
Destroy or neutralize operational weapons-system capabilities. 
• 
Delay or disrupt the timely movement of forces and supplies. 


FM 3-19.1 


The Threat 3-5 


• 
Weaken the friendly force’s C2 network. 
• 
Disrupt support to combat forces. 
• 
Set the stage for future enemy operations. 
• 
Create panic and confusion throughout the rear area. 


3-14. Typical examples of enemy priority targets include the following: 
• 
NBC-weapons storage sites and delivery systems. 
• 
Key command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence 
(C4I) facilities. 
• 
Air-defense artillery (ADA) sites. 
• 
Airfields and air bases. 
• 
Port facilities. 
• 
Main supply routes (MSRs) and MSR checkpoints. 
• 
Key LOC. 
• 
Reserve assembly areas (AAs). 
• 
Troop barracks. 
• 
Critical civilian and logistics facilities. 


THREAT LOCATION 


3-15. The fact that the Cold War has ended does not imply that our traditional 
threat has ended. North Korea and Iraq are constant reminders of this fact. 
For the near future, Army commanders will fight units with Cold-War-era 
equipment and tactics. The Army trains and is prepared to fight an enemy 
capable of interfering with our freedom of maneuver throughout the 
battlefield. On an extended battlefield with asymmetric threats, the danger to 
high-value assets (HVAs) (including CSS, C2, communication nodes, and 
MSRs) only increases. The idea that the danger to the rear area decreases as 
you travel farther away from the forward edge of the battle area (FEBA) is not 
true. Threat intensity does not depend on geographical location; it depends on 
what operations the enemy believes must be initiated (and to what degree) to 
achieve its objective in the rear area. Military commanders depend on the MP 
to delay and defeat threats in their AO with a mobile reaction force. 


Table 3-1. Threat Levels 


Threat Level 
Example 
Response 


I 
Agents, saboteurs, 
sympathizers, and terrorists 
Unit, base, and base-cluster self- 
defense measures 


II 
Small tactical units, 
unconventional-warfare forces, 
guerrillas, and bypassed enemy 
forces 


Self-defense measures and 
response forces with supporting 
fires 


III 
Large tactical-force operations 
(including airborne, heliborne, 
amphibious, infiltration, and 
bypassed enemy forces) 


Timely commitment of a TCF 


FM 3-19.1 


3-6 The Threat 


COMMUNICATIONS ZONE 


3-16. The nature of the COMMZ will encourage Level I and II threats to 
concentrate along the LOC and other areas of military significance. MP units 
will encounter an enemy that is capable of disrupting operations throughout 
the COMMZ while employing terrorist activities, enemy-controlled agent 
activities, enemy sympathizers, and saboteurs. If the enemy is Level III 
capable, MP leaders must expect infiltrations and air, missile, or NBC attacks 
as a precursor to a major Level III operation. 


CORPS REAR AREA 


3-17. The activities in Levels I and II will be similar in composition and 
density as in the COMMZ, but they will target key corps units, key facilities, 
and corps sustainment capabilities. The threat activities, especially at smaller 
unit levels, may even precede hostilities. MP leaders must be alert and 
prepared to encounter unconventional forces conducting diversionary or 
sabotage operations and small combat units conducting raids, ambushes, or 
reconnaissance operations or collecting special warfare intelligence. With the 
fast tempo of offensive operations, MP leaders must also be alert and prepared 
to encounter bypassed forces that can disrupt operations in the corps rear 
area. 


DIVISION REAR AREA 


3-18. The division rear area (DRA) contains many types of CS and CSS units 
and conducts many complex operations. As in the COMMZ and the corps rear 
area, the full spectrum of Level I, II, and III activities may occur in the DRA. 
The main target will be the division’s HVA (including key C2 facilities; 
airfields; artillery, aviation, and air-defense assets; LOC; and essential CSS 
units). The threat may conduct diversionary attacks, sabotages, raids, 
ambushes, and reconnaissance operations to affect the commander's freedom 
of maneuver and the continuity of operations. Unlike corps MP, the likelihood 
of division MP encountering bypassed enemy forces is expected. Failure to 
delay or defeat these forces will impact division operations. 


OTHER TYPES OF THREATS 


3-19. As US forces are deployed throughout the world, they will have to face 
nontraditional, asymmetric threats (other than those listed in Table 3-1, page 
3-5) that may be geographically specific. As part of situational awareness, and 
in coordination with military intelligence (MI) and CID personnel, MP leaders 
must evaluate and assess the impact of these threats in their AO. A TO is 
vulnerable to any or a combination of the following threats: 
• 
National or international organized crime. 
• 
Narcotics traffickers. 
• 
Narcotics terrorists. 
• 
Extremist groups. 
• 
Paramilitary groups. 
• 
Ethnic or religious disputes. 
• 
Trade in illegal weapons or strategic materials. 


FM 3-19.1 


The Threat 3-7 


3-20. MP leaders must be aware that other threats exist and that they have 
the same potential as the Level I and II threats to disrupt operations in rear- 
area or sustainment operations. In some instances, the above threats’ 
capabilities or the massing of personnel may have the same potential threat 
as a Level III threat. 


COUNTERING THE THREAT 


3-21. The disruption of rear-area and sustainment operations directly affects 
military efforts. Three types of forces may be used to counter the threat in 
these areas—a base/base-cluster self-defense force, a response force, or a 
tactical combat force (TCF). 


BASE/BASE-CLUSTER SELF-DEFENSE FORCE 


3-22. A base cluster is established when the appropriate echelon rear- 
operations cell or command post (CP) places geographically contiguous or 
noncontiguous bases under the control of a headquarters. The base cluster 
becomes the next higher tactical C2 headquarters of those bases. The rear- 
operations cell or the rear CP may also establish a base cluster for a corps 
support group (CSG), an area support group (ASG), or other CSS units 
operating in the corps or division rear areas. 


3-23. US ARFOR have the inherent responsibility to contribute as many 
forces as possible for base defense and local security for themselves and their 
facilities, installations, and activities. Each base and base-cluster commander 
must develop a defense plan to detect, defeat, and minimize the effects of 
Level I and limited Level II threat attacks on his base or base cluster 
(including NBC attacks). To maximize the unit’s mission accomplishment, 
defense plans must be flexible and allow for differing degrees of security based 
on the probability of threat activity. Defense plans are given to MP units 
operating near the base or base cluster. The base commander most often 
employs a series of defense measures providing internal and perimeter 
security. His internal reaction forces use organic weapons to neutralize and 
defeat most low-level threat activity. Although not fully equipped to engage 
major conventional or unconventional enemy forces that may confront him, a 
base commander must deploy his personnel to defend themselves until MP, 
HN, local police, or combat forces (if available) can respond. 


RESPONSE FORCE 


3-24. A response force is summoned when the base or base cluster is faced 
with threat forces that are beyond their self-defense capability. If the MP are 
the designated response force, they must— 
• 
Coordinate with the supported bases or base-cluster commanders to 
conduct a joint IPB. 
• 
Review base and base-cluster self-defense plans. 
• 
Exchange signal-operating-instructions (SOI) information. 
• 
Identify MP contingency plans to counter likely enemy activities. 
• 
Integrate ADA, engineer, chemical, field-artillery (FA), Army-aviation, 
and close-air-support (CAS) fire support into their plans (if available). 


FM 3-19.1 


3-8 The Threat 


3-25. MP units help the base or base cluster return to its primary mission by 
defeating Level II threats. MP units closely watch likely avenues of enemy 
approach, possible landing zones (LZs), drop zones (DZs), C2 facilities, and 
other key installations. They accomplish this through the MMS, AS, and PIO 
functions. 


3-26. If MP units are not the designated response force, they may become the 
initial response force for units within their AO. When this occurs, they block, 
delay or, if possible, destroy enemy elements within their capability. If the 
attack is by a larger or more capable force, they will maintain contact and 
continue to develop the situation or delay until the appropriate response force 
appears or the battlefield commander commits the TCF. 


TACTICAL COMBAT FORCE 


3-27. When the MP response force encounters or engages threats beyond its 
ability to defeat, it immediately notifies the higher headquarters. The 
battlefield commander will then evaluate the situation and commit the TCF to 
defeat the Level III threat. The TCF is normally a combined-arms 
organization tailored by the corps or division G3, based on METT-TC. The 
TCF normally receives fire, aviation, or other support needed to fight and 
defeat the threat. Once the TCF is identified and before it is committed to 
battle, it will conduct direct coordination with the MP or other response forces 
regarding the exchange of reconnaissance information, battle-handoff 
procedures, and contingency plans for TCF operations. Once the TCF is 
committed, the MP unit performing as the response force becomes OPCON to 
the TCF commander. 


MP AS THE TCF 


3-28. The MP brigade or battalion is capable of conducting TCF missions only 
when properly augmented. MP augmentation may be in the form of fires, 
small combat units, aviation assets, or CAS. The specific type of augmentation 
is METT-TC dependent. Additionally, the MP C2 headquarters must receive 
the respective liaison officers to ensure that augmentation forces are 
synchronized and employed according to their capabilities. The MP 
commander's situational awareness and battlefield visualization are key 
elements to TCF operations. Once designated as the TCF, the MP unit 
commander establishes liaison with the appropriate rear CP to obtain— 
• 
The current rear-area IPB. 
• 
The friendly unit disposition. 
• 
Defense plans. 
• 
Priorities for protection. 
• 
The fire-support plan. 


3-29. Based on the above information, the MP commander conducts his own 
IPB and develops a concept of operations. He then forwards it to the 
appropriate higher echelon for coordination and approval. 


3-30. The MP’s ability to employ organic MP assets as part of the TCF is 
limited by the following factors: 


FM 3-19.1 


The Threat 3-9 


• 
MP availability. Normally, all MP assets available are committed at 
all times. The specific function and scope that MP units perform 
during the operation are determined by the Army commander’s needs, 
the intensity of the conflict, and the availability of MP resources. The 
commander, with advice from the MP leader, must decide which MP 
operations must be scaled back, delayed, or shifted before the MP unit 
can be designated as part of the TCF. 
• 
MP dispersion. MP units are normally displaced over a large 
geographical area. Technological capabilities and mobility allow them 
to operate over great distances. In today’s battlefield, a typical MP 
company employment covers between 1,000 and 1,200 square 
kilometers and performs numerous missions in support of all five 
functions. The distance between elements, the reprioritization and 
movement of other MP units, the difficult terrain, poor roads, and bad 
weather may slow down the MP’s commitment as a TCF. 


Military Police Functions 4-1 


Chapter 4 


Military Police Functions 


Military police support the Army commander’s mission to win the 
battle. They help the commander shape the battlefield so that he can 
conduct decisive operations to destroy enemy forces, large or small, 
wherever and whenever the Army is sent to war. 


MAJ(P) Anthony Cruz 


The MP Corps supports shaping and sustainment operations while 
performing its five basic functions as a flexible, economy-of-force 
organization. Through these functions, MP units are able to provide the 
commander with an array of CS operations across the full spectrum of 
military operations (see Table 4-1). 


OVERVIEW 


4-1. MP assets are limited. Specific functions are performed at any given time 
and are determined by the supported commander’s need, the intensity of the 
conflict, and the availability of MP resources. The supported commander, 
through the command’s PM, sets the priorities for MP operations. 


4-2. The PM (based on METT-TC and the available assets) continuously 
evaluates the trade-off between the MP support that the commander requires 
and the MP support that can be provided. To meet the priorities set by the 


Table 4-1. MP Functions 


Functions 


MMS 
AS 
PIO 
L&O 
I/R 


Subtasks 


Support to river- 
crossing and 
breaching 
operations and 
passage of lines 


Straggler and 
dislocated- 
civilian control 


Route R&S 


MSR regulation 
enforcement 


Recon 
operations 


ADC 


Base/air-base 
defense 


Response-force/ 
TCF operations 


Critical site, 
asset, and HRP 
security 


Force protection/ 
physical security 


Antiterrorism 


IPB support 


PIAP 


Active and 
passive roles 


Information 
collection and 
dissemination 


Joint, 
interagency, and 
multinational 
coordination 


Law 
enforcement 


Criminal 
investigations 


US Customs 
operations 


Related L&O 
training 


EPW/CI 
handling 


US military 
prisoner 
handling 


Populace and 
resource control 


Dislocated 
civilians 


NOTE: Subtasks not all-inclusive. 


FM 3-19.1 


4-2 Military Police Functions 


commander’s 
tactical 
plan, 
the 
PM 
recommends 
the 
allocation 
and 
employment of MP assets for MP combat, CS, and CSS operations. 


MANEUVER AND MOBILITY SUPPORT 


4-3. The MMS function involves numerous measures and actions necessary to 
support the commander’s freedom of movement in his AOR. The MP expedite 
the forward and lateral movement of combat resources and ensure that 
commanders get forces, supplies, and equipment when and where they are 
needed. This is particularly important in the modern battlefield where there 
is a greater geographical dispersal of forces and lengthened LOC. 


4-4. The MP maintain the security and viability of the strategic and tactical 
LOC to ensure that the commander can deploy and employ his forces. The MP 
support the commander and help expedite military traffic by operating traffic- 
control posts (TCPs), defilades, or mobile patrols; erecting route signs on 
MSRs or alternate supply routes (ASRs); or conducting a reconnaissance for 
bypassed or additional routes. The MP move all units quickly and smoothly 
with the least amount of interference possible. 


4-5. As part of the MMS function, the MP support river-crossing operations, 
breaching operations, and a passage of lines. They also provide straggler 
control, dislocated-civilian control, route reconnaissance and surveillance 
(R&S), and MSR regulation enforcement. 


RIVER-CROSSING OPERATIONS 


4-6. US forces conduct river-crossing operations to move a large force across a 
river obstacle with a minimum loss of momentum. The MP play a vital role by 
assisting the force commander in crossing the river as quickly and efficiently 
as 
possible. 
The 
crossing 
is 
usually 
planned 
and 
conducted 
by 
the 
headquarters directing the crossing. As such, a division crossing operation is 
conducted by a corps. Whether a brigade or division is crossing, the division 
MP company may also cross to provide uninterrupted support to the division. 
In these instances, there is a total reliance on the corps MP to support the 
crossing. The same is true for breaching operations and a passage of lines. 


4-7. MP support for river-crossing operations reduces the crossing time and 
promotes the efficient movement of vehicles. It reduces congestion, speeds the 
crossing, and enables the maneuver commander to continue his momentum 
toward his primary objective. The MP establishes staging and holding areas 
and TCPs to control movement to and from these areas (according to the 
traffic-control plan). The MP may be called on to provide security for crossing 
forces at the crossing sites. In most cases, the MP TCPs and engineer 
regulation points (ERPs) are located on both sides of the river to improve 
communications and coordination between the units. 


4-8. MP employment for river crossing is influenced by METT-TC. The 
number and placement of MP assets supporting a river-crossing operation 
varies with the size of the crossing force, the direction of the crossing (forward 
or retrograde), and the degree of enemy resistance expected or encountered. 


4-9. The MP operating inside the crossing areas are OPCON to the crossing- 
area commander for the duration of the operation. The MP operating outside 


FM 3-19.1 


Military Police Functions 4-3 


of the crossing area are under the command of their appropriate echelon 
commander. 


4-10. The main thrust of MP support to river-crossing operations is within the 
immediate river-crossing site. The MP direct units to their proper locations 
(such as holding areas and staging areas) and ensure that units move through 
the area within the time listed on the movement schedule. This is a highly 
critical aspect of river crossing because the number of crossing sites is limited. 
MP assets are placed where they can stress MMS operations on MSRs leading 
into the crossing area. 


4-11. The MP also provide AS to allow crossing forces to cross the river 
without losing momentum or forces. On both near and far sides, the MP are 
used to recon the crossing unit’s flanks and rear to enhance security (see FM 
19-4). 


BREACHING OPERATIONS 


4-12. Breaching operations are conducted to allow forces to maneuver 
through obstacles. Obstacle breaching is the employment of a combination of 
tactics and techniques to advance an attacking force to the farside of an 
obstacle that may be covered by fire. It is perhaps the most difficult combat 
task a force can encounter. Breaching operations begin when friendly forces 
detect an obstacle, and they end when the battle handover has occurred 
between the follow-on forces and a unit conducting the breaching operation 
(see FM 90-13-1). 


4-13. The MP support breaching operations in numerous ways. MP assets are 
employed based on METT-TC, the available resources, and the commander's 
priorities. As a minimum, MP support may include, but is not limited to— 
• 
Establishing TCPs along routes leading to or departing from the 
breaching site. 
• 
Establishing holding areas. 
• 
Establishing TCPs at the breaching site. 
• 
Assisting engineers with temporary route signs. 
• 
Establishing straggler-control operations. 
• 
Conducting AS operations. 


4-14. The most critical MP support is provided at the breaching site. The MP 
provide the commander with a means to control traffic flow to appropriate 
lanes. When multiple lanes branch off of a single far-recognition marker, the 
MP assist in directing the formation through various lanes. They also assist in 
modifying the traffic flow when lanes have been closed for maintenance or 
expansion. The MP conduct close coordination with the crossing-force 
commander and the TF commander executing the breaching operation. The 
MP enable the commander to make last-minute changes in traffic flow, 
thereby giving him increased flexibility to react to the enemy situation. 


PASSAGE OF LINES 


4-15. A passage of lines is an operation in which a force moves forward or 
rearward through another force’s combat positions with the intention of 
moving into or out of contact with the enemy. The passage of lines is a high- 


FM 3-19.1 


4-4 Military Police Functions 


risk military operation that requires close coordination between the passing 
unit, the stationary unit, and the MP providing the support. 


4-16. The MP help reduce confusion and congestion during a passage of lines. 
They provide security in areas surrounding passage points and passage lanes 
to ensure that the passing unit has priority for using routes to and through 
the areas. The headquarters directing the operations sets the route’s priority. 
The MP can support a forward, rearward, or lateral passage of lines. Before 
the 
actual 
operation, 
the 
MP 
in 
the 
AO 
conduct 
an 
area 
or 
zone 
reconnaissance to become familiar with the routes to, through, and beyond the 
area of passage. This enables the MP to extend the commander’s C2 by 
providing directions at passage points and by guiding the units through the 
passing lanes. Maintaining unit integrity and reducing incidents of stragglers 
is vital to maintaining the passing unit’s momentum in a forward passage of 
lines. The MP perform aggressive straggler- and dislocated-civilian-control 
operations to prevent possible infiltration of the enemy. 


4-17. A 
passage 
of 
lines 
is 
usually 
planned 
and 
coordinated 
by 
the 
headquarters directing the passage. A division’s passage of lines is planned 
and coordinated by the corps headquarters. The detailed plans are made and 
coordinated between the divisions involved. Close coordination between the 
division and corps PMs is essential. An MP unit may be the unit involved in 
passing through the lines of another unit. When conducting a delay of a Level 
II threat, the MP are likely to conduct a passage of lines with the TCF. To 
avoid fratricide, close coordination between the MP response-force commander 
and the TCF is imperative (see FM 19-4). 


STRAGGLER CONTROL 


4-18. Mobile patrols, TCPs, and checkpoint teams return stragglers to 
military control as part of their operations. Most stragglers are simply persons 
who become separated from their command by events in the CZ or while 
moving through the COMMZ. If a straggler is ill, wounded, or in shock, an MP 
must 
give 
him 
first 
aid 
and, 
if 
needed, 
call 
for 
medical 
evacuation 
(MEDEVAC). If a straggler is uninjured, an MP directs him to his parent unit 
or to a replacement unit (as command policies dictate). The MP ensure that 
stragglers attempting to avoid return to their units are escorted back to their 
command (as a minimum). 


4-19. The MP set up special posts for straggler control following NBC attacks 
or major enemy breakthroughs that result in large numbers of lost, dazed, and 
confused military personnel. Mobile MP teams operate between posts, and 
they also direct or collect stragglers. Straggler collection points may be needed 
if many stragglers are present in a combat theater. If allied forces are present 
in the theater, each nation establishes a collection point for its own personnel. 
MP teams are aware of each allied location and are prepared to assist allied 
soldiers in returning to their respective command. The MP use available 
transportation assets to transfer stragglers from TCPs and checkpoints to a 
straggler collection point. At the collection point, they are screened and sorted 
for removal to a medical facility or returned to their units to reconstitute the 
tactical commander’s combat force. 


FM 3-19.1 


Military Police Functions 4-5 


4-20. The MP report information about stragglers with whom they come in 
contact. This information is compiled by the MP headquarters and forwarded 
through appropriate channels to the higher command. Information given by 
stragglers that is of immediate tactical value is reported without delay. 


DISLOCATED-CIVILIAN CONTROL 


4-21. The MP expediting traffic on MSRs may encounter dislocated civilians 
that could hinder military traffic. The MP assist and divert dislocated 
civilians from MSRs and other areas to I/R facilities. They may also deny the 
movement of civilians whose location, direction of movement, or actions may 
be a threat to themselves or to the combat operation. The HN government is 
responsible for identifying routes for the safe movement of dislocated civilians 
out of an AO. If needed, the MP assist the civil-affairs unit and the HN in 
redirecting dislocated civilians to alternate routes established by the HN 
government. 


4-22. The US forces do not assume control of dislocated civilians unless 
requested to do so by the HN or unless operating in an environment with a 
hostile government. When the senior US commander assumes responsibility, 
the MP coordinate with civil affairs to set up TCPs at critical points along the 
route to direct dislocated civilians to secondary roadways and areas not used by 
military forces. As required, MWD teams may be used as a show of force or as a 
deterrent to assist with uncooperative personnel. 


ROUTE R&S 


4-23. The MP conduct hasty and deliberate route reconnaissances to obtain 
information on a route and nearby terrain from which the enemy can 
influence troop movement. A route reconnaissance focuses on continually 
monitoring the condition of MSRs, ASRs, and other areas. MP patrols look for 
restricting terrain, effects of weather on the route, damage to the route, NBC 
contamination, and enemy presence or absence. When enemy activity is 
spotted, the MP report it, maintain surveillance, and develop the situation. To 
gather information for proposed traffic plans, they look at the type and 
number of available routes; and they check load classifications, route widths, 
obstructions, and restrictions. 


MSR REGULATION ENFORCEMENT 


4-24. The MP undertake MSR regulation enforcement to keep the routes free 
for DSS operations. MP units support the command’s MSR regulation 
measures as stated in the traffic-regulation plan (TRP). The TRP contains 
specific measures to ensure the smooth and efficient use of the road network. 
It assigns military route numbers and names, the direction of travel, highway 
regulation points, and preplanned MP TCPs. Most importantly to the MP, it 
gives the route’s control classification. The MP ensure that classified routes 
are used only by authorized traffic. Vehicles traveling on roads too narrow for 
their passage or on roads unable to support their weight can obstruct the 
route. 


4-25. To expedite traffic on MSRs, the MP operate special circulation control 
measures such as— 


FM 3-19.1 


4-6 Military Police Functions 


• 
Temporary route signing. 
• 
Static posts such as TCPs, roadblocks, checkpoints, holding areas, and 
defilades at critical points. 
• 
Mobile teams patrolling between static posts and monitoring traffic 
and road conditions. 


4-26. They also gather information on friendly and enemy activities and help 
stranded vehicles and crews. The MP also place temporary route signs to warn 
of hazards or to guide drivers unfamiliar with the route. Using these 
measures, the MP exercise jurisdiction over the road network in the AO and 
coordinate with the HN (whenever possible) to expedite movement on MSRs. 


AREA SECURITY 


4-27. The MP perform the AS function to protect the force and to enhance the 
freedom of units to conduct their assigned missions. The MP who provide AS 
play a key role in supporting forces in rear-area and sustainment operations. 
The MP are a response force that delays and defeats enemy attempts to 
disrupt or demoralize military operations in the AO. The MP’s mobility makes 
it possible for them to detect the threat as they aggressively patrol the AO, 
MSRs, key terrain, and critical assets. The MP’s organic communications 
enable them to advise the appropriate headquarters, bases, base clusters, and 
moving units of impending enemy activities. With organic firepower, the MP 
are capable of engaging in decisive operations against a Level II threat and 
delaying (shaping) a Level III threat until commitment of the TCF. 


4-28. Throughout 
all 
aspects 
of 
the 
AS 
function, 
the 
MP 
perform 
counteractions to protect the force and to prevent or defeat a Level II threat 
operating 
within 
the 
MP’s 
AO. 
MP 
countermeasures 
may 
include 
implementing vulnerability assessments, developing procedures to detect 
terrorist actions before they occur, hardening likely targets, and conducting 
offensive operations to destroy the enemy. The MP use checkpoints and 
roadblocks to control the movement of vehicles, personnel, and materiel and to 
prevent illegal actions that may aid the enemy. The use of these control 
measures serves as a deterrence to terrorist activities, saboteurs, and other 
threats. However, at the same time, checkpoints and roadblocks expose the 
MP to these potential threats. To counter this fact, the MP may upgrade or 
harden vehicles and defensive positions. 


4-29. The MP provide combat power to protect the C2 headquarters, 
equipment, and services essential for mission success. The MP provide the 
battlefield commander with a light, mobile fighting force that can move, shoot, 
and communicate against any threat. Major subtasks associated with the AS 
function include reconnaissance operations; area damage control (ADC); base/ 
air-base defense; response-force operations; and critical site, asset, and high- 
risk personnel (HRP) security. 


RECONNAISSANCE OPERATIONS 


4-30. As part of their AS mission, the MP serve as the eyes and ears of the 
battlefield commander by seeking out the enemy and reporting information 
obtained by recon patrols. The MP conduct area and zone reconnaissances, 


FM 3-19.1 


Military Police Functions 4-7 


screening, surveillance, and countersurveillance to gain information to help 
guard against unexpected enemy attacks in the AO. The MP monitor likely 
avenues of approach and potential LZs and DZs. They become familiar with 
towns and other populated areas, ridgelines, woods, and other terrain features 
from which the enemy can influence movements along road networks. The MP 
pay close attention to areas near facilities designated critical by the 
commander. These areas include key MSR bridges and tunnels, depots, 
terminals, 
logistics-support 
bases, 
ammunition 
supply 
points 
(ASPs), 
communications centers/nodes, and C2 headquarters. The MWD teams 
provide explosive detection and personnel detection/tracking capabilities that 
enhance reconnaissance operations (especially in urban terrain). 


AREA DAMAGE CONTROL 


4-31. MP units take measures to support ADC before, during, and after 
hostile actions or natural and man-made disasters. The ADC actions integrate 
CS and CSS functions for many units. Engineers, medical personnel, and 
Army aviators work closely to ensure quick relief operations. The MP provide 
MSR regulation enforcement, refugee control, and some local security when 
required. As with reconnaissance operations, the MP may use MWD 
explosive-and personnel-detection capabilities to augment all MP missions in 
rear-area and sustainment operations. 


BASE/AIR-BASE DEFENSE 


4-32. The MP are the base and base-cluster commanders’ links for detection, 
early warning, and employment against enemy attacks. The information 
gathered is dispersed throughout the rear area to help apprise the commander 
of enemy activities near bases. Base defense is the cornerstone of rear-area 
security. When the threat exceeds the base/base-cluster capability, the base/ 
base-cluster commander requests MP assistance through the appropriate C2 


element. 


4-33. Air-base defense requires special MP coordination with the US Air Force 
(USAF). The MP treat air bases like any other base or base cluster. A USAF 
air base may house the base-cluster commander, or it may be a cluster by 
itself. The MP are responsible for the air base’s external defense. Its internal 
defense is primarily the responsibility of the Air Force’s security forces. The 
security force provides in-depth defense for weapons, weapons systems, 
command centers, personnel, and other priority resources established by the 
base commander. 


4-34. The security force is trained and equipped to detect, delay, and deny 
Level I and II threats. If a Level III threat is present, the security force is 
tasked with delaying actions; however, the HN, a sister service, or other 
support must be employed to defeat this threat. If the security force requires 
assistance to defeat a Level II threat, it may rely on MP response forces or 
another response force to assist in the defense. If available, the MP response 
force will react to the air-base defense, just as it would for any other base or 
base cluster within the MP’s AO. However, the key to successful MP 
employment depends on the critical exchange of information before and 
during the MP employment. Good communications, an understanding of the 


FM 3-19.1 


4-8 Military Police Functions 


defense plan, and liaison operations are vital in preventing responding forces 
from entering a situation that could result in fratricide. 


RESPONSE-FORCE OPERATIONS 


4-35. The MP are the base and base-cluster commanders' response force 
against enemy attacks in rear-area or sustainment operations. The MP gather 
information about the enemy while performing missions throughout the AO. 
This information provides commanders with enemy activity near bases. When 
needed, the MP provide a mobile response force to respond to bases under 
attack and to destroy the enemy. A base commander's defense plan is the 
cornerstone for protecting rear-area and sustainment operations. The base 
commander is responsible for defeating all Level I threats. When this threat 
exceeds his capabilities, he requests MP support. The MP located near bases 
or patrolling or conducting AS operations consolidate their forces, respond as 
quickly as possible, and conduct combat operations to destroy the enemy. If 
needed, the MP conduct a battle handover to the TCF. 


4-36. MP forces performing as a response force are capable of conducting the 
following offensive operations: 
• 
A movement to contact. 
• 
A hasty ambush. 
• 
A hasty attack. 
• 
A delay. 
• 
A call for fire. 
• 
A repel attack against critical sites. 
• 
A defense of critical sites. 


4-37. To conduct these missions, the MP consolidate into squads or platoons to 
delay, defeat, or defend against the threat. See FMs 71-3 and 71-100 for more 
information on battle-handover operations. 


CRITICAL SITE, ASSET, AND HRP SECURITY 


4-38. The MP perform their AS function across the entire designated AO. 
When the MP provide security around a critical site or asset, they usually 
provide a mobile security screen, taking advantage of its weapons and 
communications platforms. This standoff protection detects and defeats the 
threat before it can move within direct-fire range of the facilities. The MP may 
be tasked to provide detail security to key facilities, assets, and personnel. 


4-39. The MP provide security to major CPs and other facilities within the 
AO. Their employment maximizes mobility, lethality, and communications 
capabilities as a security screen. They may be required to establish local AS 
measures (such as checkpoints and listening/observation posts) to further 
protect these facilities. The MP provide internal access-control points to 
critical facilities, and they act as a response force. When the critical CP 
relocates, the MP provide in-transit security. Other types of critical site 
security include ASPs; deep-water ports; petroleum, oil, and lubricants (POL) 
terminals and pipelines; trains and railways; and air bases. 


4-40. The MP may provide convoy security for top-priority units transporting 
especially critical supplies to combat forces. MP assets should be employed 


FM 3-19.1 


Military Police Functions 4-9 


primarily on aggressive patrolling, route, area, and zone reconnaissance 
measures that would create a safe and secure environment for all types of 
vehicular and unit movement. 


4-41. The MP and the CID provide protective services to designated key 
personnel by providing access control to restricted areas within CPs, providing 
in-transit security, or providing static security measures around the clock. The 
MP coordinate with the CID when close-in protection of key personnel is 
needed. The MP and the CID also provide training for personal-protection 
countermeasures. The MWD teams may be employed to enhance MP and CID 
detection and protection capabilities. 


INTERNMENT AND RESETTLEMENT 


4-42. The Army is the Department of Defense’s (DOD’s) executive agent for all 
EPW/CI operations. Additionally, the Army is DOD’s executive agent for long- 
term confinement of US military prisoners. Within the Army and through the 
combatant 
commander, 
the 
MP 
are 
tasked 
with 
coordinating 
shelter, 
protection, accountability, and sustainment for EPWs/CIs. The I/R function 
addresses MP roles when dealing with EPWs/CIs, dislocated civilians, and US 
military prisoners. 


4-43. The I/R function is of humane as well as tactical importance. In any 
conflict involving US forces, safe and humane treatment of EPWs/CIs is 
required by international law. Military actions on the modern battlefield will 
result in many EPWs/CIs. Entire units of enemy forces, separated and 
disorganized by the shock of intensive combat, may be captured. This can 
place a tremendous challenge on tactical forces and can significantly reduce 
the capturing unit's combat effectiveness. The MP support the battlefield 
commander by relieving him of the problem of handling EPWs/CIs with 
combat forces. The MP perform their I/R function of collecting, evacuating, 
and securing EPWs throughout the AO. In this process, the MP coordinate 
with MI to collect information that may be used in current or future 
operations. 


4-44. Although the CS MP unit initially handles EPWs/CIs, modular MP (I/R) 
battalions with assigned MP guard companies and supporting MWD teams 
are equipped and trained to handle this mission for the long term. A properly 
configured modular MP (I/R) battalion can support, safeguard, account for, 
guard, and provide humane treatment for up to 4,000 EPWs/CIs; 8,000 
dislocated civilians; or 1,500 US military prisoners. 


EPW/CI HANDLING 


4-45. The MP are tasked with collecting EPWs/CIs from combat units as far 
forward as possible. The MP operate collection points and holding areas to 
temporarily secure EPWs/CIs until they can be evacuated to the next higher 
echelon’s holding area. The MP escort-guard company assigned to the MP 
brigade (I/R) evacuate the EPWs/CIs from the corps’s holding area to the 
COMMZ’s 
internment 
facilities. 
The 
MP 
safeguard 
and 
maintain 
accountability, protect, and provide humane treatment for all personnel under 
their care. 


FM 3-19.1 


4-10 Military Police Functions 


4-46. In a mature TO, MP (I/R) units process EPWs/CIs collected by MP 
teams and other units in the CZ. MP guard companies assigned to the MP 
(I/R) units guard EPWs/CIs at designated camps (see FM 19-40). 


POPULACE AND RESOURCE CONTROL 


4-47. Populace and resource control (PRC) denies adversaries or insurgents 
access to the general population and resources. The MP supports civil-affairs 
personnel and the tactical commander in planning and conducting PRC 
programs employed during all military operations. These programs may 
consist of curfews, movement restrictions, resettling dislocated civilians, 
licensing, 
ration 
control, 
regulation 
enforcement, 
amnesty 
programs, 
inspecting facilities, and guarding humanitarian-assistance distributions. The 
MP also direct dislocated civilians to resettlement camps where they are cared 
for while NGOs work to coordinate their relocation. 


4-48. The MP’s security capability, acceptability, and interface with the 
populace make them suitable as the primary forces of choice in these 
operations. The MP I/R units are specifically designed to fill this need (see FM 
41-10). 


US MILITARY PRISONERS CONFINEMENT 


4-49. The MP detain, sustain, protect, and evacuate US military prisoners. 
Whenever possible, soldiers awaiting trial remain in their units, unless 
reasonable grounds exist to believe that they will not appear at the trial, the 
pretrial hearing, or the investigation or that they will engage in serious 
criminal 
misconduct. 
Under 
either 
of 
these 
two 
pretrial 
confinement 
instances, the commander must also reasonably believe that a less severe 
form of restraint (such as conditions of liberty, restriction in lieu of 
apprehension, or apprehension) are inadequate. When these circumstances 
exist and other legal requirements are met, US military personnel may be 
placed in pretrial confinement under the MP’s direct control. Convicted 
military prisoners are moved as soon as possible to confinement facilities 
outside of the AO. 


4-50. MP confinement operations parallel (but are separate from) the MP’s 
EPW/CI operations. No member of the US armed forces may be placed in 
confinement in immediate association with an EPW or other foreign nationals 
who are not members of the US armed forces. A confinement facility is 
maintained within the TO only if distance or the lack of transportation 
requires such a facility. When military prisoners are retained in theater, 
temporary field detention facilities may be established in the CZ and a field 
confinement facility in the COMMZ (see FM 19-40 and AR 190-47). 


LAW AND ORDER 


4-51. The L&O function consists of those measures necessary to enforce laws, 
directives, and punitive regulations. The MP’s L&O function extends the 
battlefield commander’s C2. The MP, in close coordination with the CID, work 
to suppress the chance for criminal behavior throughout the AO. By 
coordinating and maintaining liaison with other DOD, HN, joint, and 
multinational agencies, the MP at all levels coordinate actions to remove 


FM 3-19.1 


Military Police Functions 4-11 


conditions that may promote crime or that have the potential to affect the 
combat 
force. 
Crime-prevention 
measures 
and 
selective 
enforcement 
measures are also performed as part of other functions. For example, the MP 
investigate traffic accidents and regulate traffic as part of the MMS function. 
The L&O function includes major areas such as law enforcement, criminal 
investigations, and support to US Customs operations. The primary units 
conducting L&O are the L&O detachments, customs teams, and CID units. 
Both the MWD team and the MP company (CS) also support the L&O 
function. 


LAW ENFORCEMENT 


4-52. Law-enforcement 
operations 
assist 
the 
battlefield 
commander 
in 
preserving his force. The MP dedicate assets to conduct law-enforcement 
operations based on the commander’s needs. Since MP L&O and CID assets 
may be limited during the initial stages of any operation, the PM depends on 
the supported commander's development of an effective crime-prevention 
program and uses established investigative tools (such as inquiries and AR 
15-6 investigations) to enforce rules. This will allow the PM to employ limited 
MP assets to perform other functions. Law-enforcement operations include 
responding to civil disturbances, conducting raids, investigating traffic 
accidents, conducting vehicle searches, supporting the commander’s force- 
protection program, and providing support to HN and civil-enforcement 
agencies. Law enforcement also includes employing special-reaction teams 
(SRTs), marksman/observer (M/O) teams, and MWD teams. 


4-53. The Army conducts counterdrug-support operations that generally fall 
within several DOD counterdrug-mission categories. The MP support the 
Army’s role rather than directly participating in civil law-enforcement 
activities (such as searches, seizures, and arrests). When tasked, the MP 
provide training to law-enforcement agencies in common soldier skills, 
physical security, and tactical planning and operations. US Code (USC) Title 
18, Posse Comitatus Act, Section 1385 prohibits the use of DOD assets to 
enforce 
civilian 
law 
(federal 
and 
state) 
except 
in 
cases 
and 
under 
circumstances expressly authorized by the Constitution or by an act of 
Congress. 


4-54. In multinational operations, the MP may assist with the creation of 
multinational 
police 
units. 
Circumstances 
that 
may 
support 
the 
establishment of these police forces include existing or negotiated terms of 
international agreements or security-assistance programs, a multinational 
operational agreement, or appropriate military directives. The MP provide the 
capability to train foreign MP and/or reconstitute indigenous constabulary 
forces as part of stability and support operations. The MP can provide the 
initial mentoring to these forces and provide temporary, emergency law- 
enforcement capabilities until the foreign military or civilian police forces are 
functional (see FM 100-8). 


CRIMINAL INVESTIGATIONS 


4-55. The MP investigate offenses against US forces or property committed by 
persons subject to military law. Investigations against minor crimes (such as 
low-value, 
personal-property 
thefts 
or 
simple 
assaults) 
are 
normally 


FM 3-19.1 


4-12 Military Police Functions 


investigated by the MP’s L&O detachment. Investigations against major 
incidents involving wrongful death, serious bodily injury, and war crimes are 
referred to special agents of the USACIDC. The USACIDC conducts death 
investigations in the absence of HN agreements or in conjunction with the 
HN. The USACIDC special agents are authorized to investigate any alleged 
criminal conduct in which there is an Army interest unless prohibited by law 
or higher authority. 


4-56. The USACIDC’s investigative authority and investigative responsibility 
outside of the US are determined by international treaty or agreement 
(including status of forces agreements [SOFAs]), the policies of the HN 
government, the US ambassador, and AR 195-2. In the absence of such 
provisions, the following guidelines apply: 
• 
On Army-controlled installations, the USACIDC has the authority to 
investigate alleged crimes. 
• 
Outside of an Army-controlled installation, the USACIDC may 
investigate after coordinating with HN authorities. 


4-57. In all environments, the USACIDC has the responsibility to investigate 
all felony crimes involving Army personnel, DA civilians and agencies, and 
companies working for the Army. The USACIDC investigates war crimes and 
crimes involving personal and government property affecting the Army’s 
mission (logistics security [LOGSEC]). Other investigations (such as those 
based on international treaties, SOFAs, and joint investigations with the HN) 
may be undertaken if requested by the supported commander in support of 
the overall Army mission. See Chapter 9 for a complete discussion of the 
USACIDC. 


US CUSTOMS OPERATIONS 


4-58. The MP support the US Customs Service (USCS), the US Department of 
Agriculture (USDA), other federal agencies, joint staffs, and commanders who 
enforce the laws and regulations of the US concerning customs, agriculture, 
and immigration border clearances. Support to the USCS also includes 
assistance to federal agencies to eliminate the illegal traffic of controlled 
substances and other contraband through Army channels. MP support to 
customs operations are normally performed by specially trained MP customs 
teams. Although other MP units are not trained in all facets of customs 
operations, they may assist MP customs teams, the USCS or the USDA, and 
other federal agencies in the enforcement of applicable laws and regulations. 
When tasked, the MP/CID supports the investigation of violations of US 
Codes, DOD or DA regulations, and applicable provisions of SOFAs. 


4-59. The MP report violations of customs laws, regulations, inspections, and 
investigative results to the installation’s PM, the supported commander, and 
affected 
units. 
During redeployment 
from 
outside 
the 
continental 
US 
(OCONUS) to CONUS installations, the MP support the USCS or USDA 
efforts to ensure that personnel, equipment, and materiel meet customs, 
immigration, and agriculture requirements as stated by all applicable laws 
and regulations. As with other functions, MWD teams may be employed in 
support of customs operations for the detection of explosives or narcotics. 


FM 3-19.1 


Military Police Functions 4-13 


POLICE INTELLIGENCE OPERATIONS 


4-60. The 
PIO 
function 
supports, 
enhances, 
and 
contributes 
to 
the 
commander's protection program, situational awareness, and battlefield 
visualization by portraying relevant threat information that may affect his 
operational and tactical environments. This threat information—whether it is 
police, criminal, or combat information—is gathered while conducting MP 
functions. The PIO function— 
• 
Demonstrates the MP’s/CID’s capability to collect relevant threat 
information actively or passively. 
• 
Ensures that all information collected while conducting MMS, AS, I/R, 
and L&O functions continues to be reported through the proper 
channels so that it can be analyzed by the Intelligence Officer (US 
Army) (S2) or the Assistant Chief of Staff, G2 (Intelligence) (G2) with 
support from the appropriate MP echelon. 
• 
Coordinates with USACIDC elements to employ data developed by the 
USACIDC’s programs. These programs include— 


I 
The Combating Terrorism Program as outlined in AR 525-13 and 
CIDR 195-1. 


I 
The Criminal Intelligence Program (CIP). 


I 
Personal-security vulnerability assessments (PSVAs). 


I 
A crime threat analysis. 


I 
Logistics-security threat assessments (LSTAs). 


NOTE: The MP/CID must ensure that criminal information is released 
according to existing controls and restraints. 


• 
Maintains constant liaison and communication with the higher 
echelon S2/G2; psychological-operations (PSYOP) units; HN police and 
other law-enforcement agencies; joint, combined, interagency, and 
multinational forces; the staff judge advocate (SJA); the CMOC; civil- 
affairs teams; and the force-protection officer. 


4-61. The MP brigade commander, the battalion commander, and the PM are 
responsible for the PIO function. As such, each one must determine the best 
way to employ the available staff resources to monitor the execution of the 
PIO function within his command. 


IPB PROCESS AND PIO FUNCTION 


4-62. The IPB is a systematic, continuous process for analyzing the threat and 
environment in a specific geographic area. It is designed to support staff 
estimates and military decision making. Applying the IPB process helps the 


During operation Just Cause, an MP platoon temporarily assumed the customs 
mission at the main terminal of the Torrijos International Airport located just 
outside of Panama City. Their mission supported the air evacuation of foreign- 
national civilians and the redeployment of some of the initial-entry US forces. 


FM 3-19.1 


4-14 Military Police Functions 


commander selectively apply and maximize his combat power at critical 
points in time and space on the battlefield by— 
• 
Determining the threat's likely COA. 
• 
Describing the environment the unit is operating within and the 
environmental effects on the unit. 


4-63. The IPB process consists of the following four steps: 
• 
Define the battlefield environment. The S2/G2 identifies the 
battlefield characteristics that will influence friendly and threat 
operations, establishes the limits of the area of interest (AOI), and 
identifies gaps in current intelligence holdings. 
• 
Describe 
the 
battlefield 
effects. 
The 
S2/G2 
evaluates 
the 
environmental effects with which both sides must contend. The S2/G2 
identifies the limitations and opportunities that the environment 
offers on the potential operations of friendly and threat forces. This 
evaluation process focuses on the general capabilities of each force 
until COAs are developed later in the IPB process. This environmental 
assessment always includes an examination of terrain and weather, 
but it may also include discussions of characteristics of geography and 
infrastructure and their effects on friendly and threat operations. 
• 
Evaluate the threat. The S2/G2 and his staff analyze the command's 
intelligence holdings to determine how the threat normally organizes 
for combat and conducts operations under similar circumstances. 
When facing a well-known threat, the S2/G2 can rely on historical 
databases and threat models. When operating against a new or less 
known threat, he may need to develop his intelligence databases and 
threat models concurrently. 
• 
Determine the threat’s COA. Given what the threat normally 
prefers to do and the effects of the specific environment in which he is 
operating, his likely objectives and the COAs available to him are 
determined. The S2/G2 develops enemy COA models that depict the 
threat’s available COAs. He also prepares event templates and 
matrices that focus intelligence and identify which COA the enemy 
will execute (see FM 34-130). 


4-64. Although the S2/G2 has the staff responsibility for the command's IPB, 
he is not the only one who conducts or needs to understand and use the IPB. 
Every Army commander and staff member must understand and apply the 
IPB process during the staff planning process. The MP on the battlefield are 
no exception. The MP employ the IPB process as their first step in developing 
and implementing the PIO function within their commands. 


4-65. During the IPB process, the S2/G2 uses all available databases, 
intelligence sources/products, and related MI disciplines to analyze the threat 
and the environment. The PIO function supports this process by providing the 
S2/G2 with collected police, criminal, and combat information that can 
directly and significantly contribute to the success of the MI effort. In addition 
to the combat information, the PIO function provides additional information 
on possible criminal threats and COAs that may support the S2’s/G2’s IPB 
process and that can be used by the commander to upgrade the force- 
protection posture. 


FM 3-19.1 


Military Police Functions 4-15 


POLICE INFORMATION ASSESSMENT PROCESS 


4-66. Like the S2/G2 uses the IPB process to continuously analyze the threat 
and the environment in a specific geographical area, MP leaders use the PIAP 
as a tool to continuously collect, organize, interpret, and gain access to police/ 
criminal information in support of the IPB process. Criminal trends may have 
an impact on the tactical scenario, and the PIAP is a method used to consider 
this threat and its impact on friendly forces. MP leaders cannot use the PIAP 
as a substitute for the IPB process—the PIAP complements the IPB (see 
Appendix E). 


PASSIVE MODE PIO 


4-67. Every MP conducts the PIO function in a passive mode during their 
normal day-to-day operations and across the full spectrum of military 
operations. In the passive mode, PIO are not a stand-alone function; as such, 
they cannot be separated from other MP functions. 


4-68. During the performance of MMS, AS, I/R, and L&O functions, the MP 
develop and exchange information with other organizations in the AO. The 
MP obtain information through contact with civilians, NGOs, IHOs, local and 
HN police, multinational police, and other security forces. If the MP receive, 
observe, 
or 
encounter 
information 
(police, 
criminal, 
or 
combat) 
while 
performing these functions, they will immediately submit a report to relay 
information up the chain of command. This report may be in the form of a size, 
activity, location, unit, time, and equipment (SALUTE) report; a spot report 
(SPOTREP); or another appropriate report. When the higher echelon (brigade, 
battalion, or PM) receives this information, it is simultaneously integrated 
into the ongoing IPB/PIAP and forwarded to the higher echelon S2/G2 (see 
Figure 4-1, page 4-16). 


4-69. If police/criminal information is obtained, the MP— 
• 
Update the previous police/criminal estimates provided to the S2/G2. 
• 
Identify new or potential criminal threats or trends in the AO. 
• 
Consider recommending that the supported commander upgrade the 
force-protection level. 
• 
Notify adjacent units of the potential criminal threat that may affect 
their forces. 
• 
Consider reprioritizing MP support to the identified threat area. 
• 
Share information with HN/local police and other agencies. 


4-70. If combat information is obtained, the MP— 
• 
Forward the information to the higher headquarters S2/G2. 
• 
Forward the information to the MP chain of command, integrate it 
into the MP’s IPB process and, if necessary, take appropriate action. 
• 
Notify the adjacent unit of the potential threat that may affect their 
forces. 


FM 3-19.1 


4-16 Military Police Functions 


During Operation Uphold Democracy, an MP team was conducting a TCP as part 
of a cordon and search operation in Port-au-Prince, Haiti. While performing the 
task, two civilians approached the MP team informing them of criminal activity in 
the neighborhood. During the interview, the MP team prepared a sketch of a 
house and surrounding areas. The team also obtained information describing the 
criminals and their weapons. Recognizing that the criminal activity was in fact the 
actions of a political/mercenary group named FRAP, the MP team radioed the 
platoon leader and forwarded the field interview to higher headquarters. Two days 
later, a unit from the 10th Mountain Division raided the house, capturing weapons, 
ammunition, and equipment. 


Figure 4-1. PIO—Passive Mode 


ÿÿ 


ÿÿ 


ÿ 


ÿÿ 


CDR 


S2/G2 


MP 


MP 


MP 


PM 


IPB 
IPB 


PIAP 


MMS 
AS 


•Police 
•Criminal 
•Combat 


•See 
•Receive 
•Encounter 


L&O 
I/R 


Input 


Input 


MP may obtain 
PI while 
conducting the 
four functions 


FM 3-19.1 


Military Police Functions 4-17 


4-71. The preceding vignette demonstrates the MP performing the PIO 
function in the passive mode. The MP team received the information while 
conducting a TCP and submitted it through the appropriate chain of 
command, which resulted in an action taken. This example stresses the 
importance of submitting information up the chain of command regardless of 
whether it may be police, criminal, or combat information. 


ACTIVE MODE PIO 


4-72. The MP perform the PIO function in the active mode and across the full 
spectrum of military operations when directed by higher headquarters. In this 
mode, the MP conduct specific MMS, AS, I/R, and L&O missions with the intent 
to collect information actively in support of the S2’s/G2’s IPB process or the 
PIAP. 


4-73. When the S2/G2 identifies a gap in the command's knowledge of the 
threat and the current threat situation, it may be recommended to be included 
as priority intelligence requirements (PIR). The S2/G2 will then develop a 
collection plan to assist him in filling this gap. Part of his collection strategy is 
to select the best collectors available to cover each intelligence requirement. 
After a thorough analysis (which includes availability, capability, and 
performance history), the collection manager identifies which collection asset 
can best be used in response to a given requirement, and the Operations and 
Training Officer (US Army) (S3)/G3 tasks the asset. If the S2/G2 determines 
that the MP is the right force to serve as collectors, the S3/G3 will go through 
the appropriate request channels and task the PM. The S2/G2 will then 
provide the PM with a specific guideline and a prioritized collection 
requirement (see FM 34-2). 


4-74. On receipt of the mission, the PM will conduct a mission analysis to 
decide which specific MP function (MMS, AS, I/R, or L&O) is needed to satisfy 
the S2’s/G2’s requirement. Once the analysis is completed and the appropriate 
function selected, the PM will then task subordinate units with the collection 
mission. Once the mission is completed, the PM may receive another collection 
tasking or continue with previous MP tasks. 


4-75. When the MP commander or the PM conducts the PIAP, he may also 
encounter a police/criminal information gap. This gap may become the MP 
commander's police/criminal information requirements (PCIR). If the gap 
cannot be filled with available data from the S2/G2, the CID, the HN, and other 
agencies, the MP commander/PM may task subordinate MP units or request 
CID assistance to support the collection effort. On receipt of the mission, the MP 
will then conduct a mission analysis and decide which specific MP function 
(MMS, AS, I/R, or L&O) is needed to satisfy the PM requirement. Once the 
mission is completed, the MP may receive another collection tasking or continue 
with previous MP tasks (see Figure 4-2, page 4-18). 


4-76. Since any soldier on the battlefield can report police or criminal 
information, the MP commander or the PM must constantly coordinate and 
communicate with the S2/G2, PSYOP, and other agencies to obtain information 
that could be of MP/CID interest. This constant coordination is a key factor for 
ensuring that the MP/CID has visibility over the police/criminal information 
that is reported through non-MP channels. 


FM 3-19.1 


4-18 Military Police Functions 


Figure 4-2. PIO—Active Mode 


XX 


X 


XX 


X 


I I 
I I 


I 
I 


XX 


IPB 
information 
gap 


Sharing of information 


S2/G2 


MP 


MP 


MP 


PM 
PM 


MP 


MP 


MP 


PIAP 
information 
gap 


MP may 
employ any of 
the other four 
functions to 
satisfy the PI 
requirement 
MMS 


L&O 


AS 


I/R 


Military Police Support to Echelons Above Corps 5-1 


Chapter 5 


Military Police Support to Echelons Above Corps 


MP units supporting EAC perform combat, CS, and CSS operations. 
Like the MP supporting corps and divisions, MP units supporting 
EAC units perform the five MP functions based on available assets 
and the supported commander’s needs. 


USAMPS 


MP support to EAC includes support to the ASCC and the TSC. The ASCC 
is responsible for Army Title 10 requirements in support of a combatant 
commander. This support includes recruitment, organization, supply, 
equipment, training, servicing, mobilizing, demobilizing, administration, 
and maintenance functions. 


OVERVIEW 


5-1. The ASCC may also be responsible for significant DOD- and combatant- 
commander-designated Army support to other services. As the senior Army 
commander in the AOR, the ASCC commander tailors and designates ARFOR 
to accomplish operational-level tasks while conducting major land operations. 
The ASCC’s operational responsibilities include— 
• 
Recommending the proper employment of Army-component forces to 
the joint-force commander or to the subunified commander. 
• 
Accomplishing operational missions as assigned. 
• 
Selecting and nominating specific Army units for assignment to 
subordinate theater forces. 
• 
Informing the combatant commander of the Army’s CSS effects on 
operational capabilities. 
• 
Providing data to the supporting operations plans (OPLANs) as 
requested. 
• 
Ensuring signal interoperability. 


5-2. The ASCC provides administrative and logistics (A/L) services to 
assigned ARFOR and to those of subordinate JFCs. When appropriate, the 
ASCC delegates the authority for support tasks to a single subordinate Army 
headquarters. In major operations, the TSC (along with other EAC support 
commands) would be the ASCC’s lead organization for planning, coordinating, 
executing, or providing required support functions (see FM 100-10). 


5-3. The TSC is the senior Army support organization in a theater. Its 
commander reports to the ASCC or ARFOR commander. The TSC normally 
operates at the operational level of CSS with links to the strategic and tactical 
levels. Unity of command is the critical element that the TSC brings to the 
fight. The TSC is a multifunctional organization that centralizes the 


FM 3-19.1 


5-2 Military Police Support to Echelons Above Corps 


command, control, and supervision of support functions at EAC as directed by 
the ASCC or ARFOR commander. The TSC’s mission is to maximize 
throughput and follow-on sustainment, including all CSS functions, of ARFOR 
and 
other 
designated 
supported 
elements. 
The 
TSC 
is 
capable 
of 
synchronizing logistics and other support operations for the ASCC. It provides 
area support to EAC units in the COMMZ and sustainment support to tactical 
forces. This support may include supply, procurement, property disposal, 
maintenance, transportation, field services, health services, civil-military 
affairs, MP support, engineer support, religious support, finance support, and 
personnel and administrative services. 


5-4. Units and commands requiring support coordinate with the TSC support- 
operations staff to secure their initial support, to reestablish support, or to 
resolve support problems. In a fully developed theater, the TSC coordinates 
with a corps support command (COSCOM) for support of combat forces, 
although direct coordination with a division support command (DISCOM) is 
sometimes necessary. The TSC, augmented by a rear operations center, is also 
responsible 
for 
security 
operations 
as 
directed 
by 
the 
ASCC/ARFOR 
commander (see FM 63-4). 


MILITARY POLICE SUPPORT 


5-5. MP support to EAC units is provided through an array of multifunctional 
MP units. The nature of the operation, METT-TC, and the requirements of the 
supported commander will determine which type of MP unit is appropriate to 
augment, assign, attach, or place under OPCON to an EAC unit. The types of 
MP units that support EAC include CS, I/R, CID, and L&O teams (such as 
MWD or customs teams). 


THE MP BRIGADE (CS) 


5-6. The MP brigade (CS) provides MMS and AS to extended LOC within the 
COMMZ. These supply corridors include ports, inland waterways, railways, 
pipelines, airfields, MSRs, and MSR critical points. The MP support the users 
of the COMMZ’s LOC by aggressively patrolling the area along the LOC. They 
play an important role in securing rear areas by performing combat 
operations against the threat. When properly augmented, the MP brigade 
headquarters may serve as the TSC’s/ASCC’s TCF headquarters. The MP 
provide MMS on the COMMZ MSRs leading into the corps’s rear area. The 
MP implement the plans of HN and US staff elements to control the forward 
movement of combat resources along the LOC. 


5-7. If resources are available, the MP brigade (CS) provides escorts to move 
US noncombatants (if present) from AA points to theater embarkation 
terminals. Until the MP brigade (I/R) arrives in theater, the CS MP units also 
perform EPW, confinement, and other operations normally performed by the 
MP I/R units. 


5-8. The organization of an MP brigade (CS) supporting EAC includes the 
following: 
• 
A brigade headquarters and headquarters company (HHC). 
• 
Up to six MP battalions (each with up to six companies). 


FM 3-19.1 


Military Police Support to Echelons Above Corps 5-3 


• 
Numerous L&O detachments and MWD teams. 


5-9. Additionally, the ASCC’s PM or commander may attach or direct OPCON 
of customs teams to the MP brigade (CS). Battalion and company organization 
in the MP brigade is the same as that in the corps MP brigade; however, 
METT-TC determines the number of battalions and companies. The MP 
brigade (CS) has additional MP companies to provide security for EAC-specific 
units/activities such as— 
• 
A unified command. 
• 
An ASCC and TSC headquarters. 
• 
LOC seaports, airfields, and railways. 
• 
EAC ammunition storage areas. 
• 
EAC petroleum terminals and pipelines. 


5-10. While the corps MP brigade (CS) MWD teams are employed in a GS 
role, the MP brigade (CS) MWD teams are employed to augment seaport 
security and to conduct inspections of postal items to detect explosive materiel 
and narcotics. 


5-11. The C2 within the MP brigade (CS) is consistent with that in any Army 
brigade. The MP brigade commander works directly for the EAC commander, 
the battalion commander works for the brigade commander, and the company 
commander works for the battalion commander. However, this usual C2 


relationship may be altered briefly (based on METT-TC) to enhance the 
overall EAC combat capability for responding to a Level II threat. For 
example, MP units operating within an ASG’s AO may be under the OPCON 
of the ASG's rear-area operations center (RAOC), which directly tasks MP 
units responding to Level II threats. The same is true for placing MP units 
under the OPCON of the EAC’s TCF headquarters for responding to Level III 
threats. Any conflict in mission priorities is resolved through MP C2 channels. 


5-12. The MP brigade commander is both the MP brigade commander and the 
EAC’s 
PM. 
He 
employs 
his 
assets 
according 
to 
METT-TC 
and 
the 
commander's concept of operations. Factors affecting his employment of MP 
assets include the— 
• 
Nature of the operation (joint, combined, or multinational). 
• 
HN’s ability to provide MP-related support (such as port security). 
• 
Custody and location of EPWs/CIs during internment operations until 
I/R units arrive in theater. 
• 
Number of kilometers of the MSR in relationship to movement-control 
requirements. 
• 
Number and kinds of critical facilities. 
• 
Number of HRP requiring close-in security. 
• 
HN’s ability to control the civilian populace, refugees, and dislocated 
civilians. 
• 
Supply distribution strategy. 
• 
Risk acceptance and threat in the AO. 
• 
Communications requirements (such as using teams as relays). 


5-13. Whenever possible, the MP brigade’s AO coincides with the territorial 
responsibility of the supported command. The MP brigade commander assigns 


FM 3-19.1 


5-4 Military Police Support to Echelons Above Corps 


the MP battalion’s AO by the above factors as well as by METT-TC. For 
example, the AOR for an MP battalion may be a large population center of 
larger geographical areas in which CSS complexes and MSRs are located. But 
as employment factors and the commander’s needs change, so will the MP’s 
AOR. The MP brigade commander must move and tailor his forces to meet the 
current and projected mission requirements. Unlike many other EAC assets, 
MP units require 100 percent mobility to shift AOs frequently and rapidly. 
The following vignette depicts the required MP flexibility to support EAC 
operations: 


5-14. Most EAC MP assets are employed along LOC and around areas of high 
troop 
concentration. 
Few 
EAC 
MP 
are 
dedicated 
to 
support 
fixed 
commitments (such as ports, air bases, and headquarters [discussed in 
paragraph 5-8]). When supporting fixed commitments, MP units provide a 
mobile security screen, and they man static positions when directed or when 
based on METT-TC. The MP brigade (CS) may have to plan for and actually 
perform the evacuation and internment of EPWs/CIs and the confinement of 
US military prisoners until the MP brigade (I/R) arrives. 


THE MP BRIGADE (I/R) 


5-15. US policy requires that all persons held in Army custody be accorded 
humane care and treatment from the moment of custody to their final release. 
The policy applies to detained or interned civilians as well as to EPWs and 
confined US military personnel. This policy is equally binding on all US troops 
(see FM 19-40). 


5-16. The ASCC or the TSC supports US laws, regulations, policies, and 
international agreements by providing personnel, administrative, morale, 
internment, resettlement, and confinement services for the TO. The TSC’s MP 
brigade (I/R) in the TO provides this support. However, since most I/R units 
are in the reserve components, the initial I/R operations (as mentioned above) 
may have to be conducted by the MP brigade (CS). Once the I/R unit arrives in 
the AO, it is responsible for— 
• 
Providing firm but humane control of EPWs/CIs and dislocated 
civilians. 
• 
Coordinating with HN personnel, military territorial organizations, 
civilian police authorities, NGOs, private volunteer organizations, and 
US federal agencies on matters pertaining to I/R operations. 
• 
Performing C2 operations for all I/R units. 
• 
Controlling, employing, and releasing EPWs/CIs as set forth by the 
Geneva convention and other international laws and by the UN and 
other governmental bodies. 
• 
Handling US military prisoners. 


During Operation Desert Shield/Storm, MP units were supporting and moving 
units throughout their AOs at a such an extraordinary rate that many of them had 
to relocate their headquarters multiple times just to keep pace with their changing 
AO. 


FM 3-19.1 


Military Police Support to Echelons Above Corps 5-5 


5-17. In a mature theater in which large numbers of EPWs are captured, the 
EPWs’ requirements may exceed the capacity of the MP brigade (I/R). In this 
instance, an I/R command is established. An MP command (I/R) has two or 
more MP brigades (I/R) and will normally be assigned to the ASCC. When the 
MP command (I/R) assumes OPCON of the MP brigades (I/R) from the lower 
echelon, it assumes that echelon's I/R mission. 


5-18. If the US decides to transfer captured EPWs/CIs to the HN or to another 
nation, the US must ensure that the nation is a party to the Geneva 
convention and is willing and able to comply with the convention. In this case, 
the number and type of I/R MP units required for processing and retaining 
EPWs/CIs before the transfer is based on agreements and on METT-TC. 
Additionally, the MP brigade (I/R) is assigned I/R teams that are located at 
the processing and transfer points and at the HN or third-country EPW 
camps. The MP brigade (I/R) liaison team will supervise these dispersed 
teams to ensure that the HN or the third country provides adequate care and 
security of US-captured EPWs/CIs and that accountability is maintained 
according to the Geneva convention. 


5-19. The MP brigade (I/R) HHC is the C2 element for the brigade's assets. It 
consists of the following elements: 
• 
A brigade command section. 
• 
A company headquarters. 
• 
An Adjutant (US Army) (S1). 
• 
An S2. 
• 
An S3. 
• 
A Supply Officer (US Army) (S4). 
• 
A Civil-Affairs Officer (US Army) (S5). 
• 
A Communications Officer (US Army) (S6). 
• 
Finance and accounting. 
• 
Medical operations. 
• 
Public affairs. 
• 
A unit ministry team. 
• 
An SJA. 
• 
An inspector-general (IG) section. 


5-20. Other brigade assets may include the following: 
• 
An MP I/R BLD. 
• 
An I/R information center. 
• 
An MP escort-guard company. 
• 
An MP I/R battalion headquarters. 
• 
MP I/R (EPW/CI) detachments. 
• 
MP I/R (confinement) detachments. 
• 
MP guard companies. 
• 
MWD teams. 
• 
Processing squads, processing liaison teams, camp liaison teams, and 
evacuation teams (all as required to support EPW transfer or to 
conduct an out-of-theater evacuation). 


FM 3-19.1 


5-6 Military Police Support to Echelons Above Corps 


5-21. The MP brigade (I/R) subordinate units are employed most often in the 
COMMZ near CSS facilities and are placed near sea, air, and rail terminals. 
They receive, process, and intern EPWs/CIs; confine US military prisoners; or 
assist in the resettlement of refugees or dislocated civilians. 


5-22. The MP brigade (I/R) escort-guard company supports the evacuation of 
EPWs/CIs from the CZ. The company has a company headquarters and four 
platoons. The escort-guard company requires sufficient mobility to transport 
MP personnel to the CZ and to operate mobile teams while escorting the 
EPWs/CIs. The MP go forward to the corps’s holding area to take custody of 
the EPWs/CIs. They may go forward to division collecting points, if distances 
and resources permit. Using any means of available transportation, the MP 
ensure that the EPWs/CIs are quickly evacuated to MP battalions (I/R) in the 
COMMZ. Close coordination with the EAC and corps movement-control 
centers and the corps MP brigade is required to ensure that transportation 
assets returning to the COMMZ are employed to evacuate EPWs/CIs from the 
corps’s holding area. Walking wounded EPWs/CIs are evacuated by the same 
means as other EPWs/CIs, while litter patients are evacuated through 
medical channels. Guarding EPWs/CIs while in the MEDEVAC channels and 
during their hospitalization is not an MP mission; therefore, there is not an 
MP force structure to support this mission. In most instances, the impact of 
having the MP perform this mission causes trade-offs in missions for which 
they are responsible. 


5-23. The theater MP brigade (I/R) and out-of-theater MP brigade (I/R) 
subordinate units will evacuate EPWs to internment sites within CONUS (if 
directed). The theater brigade structure is based on the projected capture rate 
over time and available out-of-theater transportation assets (frequency and 
capacity). The out-of-theater brigade structure is based on the total EPW/CI 
population, the number of internment sites, transportation nodes, and escort 
requirements. Theater escort-guard MP move the EPWs/CIs to the seaport 
and aerial port of embarkation (SPOE/APOE). The escort-guard MP assigned 
to the out-of-theater brigade escort the EPWs/CIs from the theater ports of 
embarkation (POEs) to the out-of-theater internment sites. The out-of-theater 
brigade is assigned an I/R evacuation detachment, which is employed at and 
coordinates the evacuation from the theater POEs, through the out-of-theater 
ports of debarkation (PODs), to the out-of-theater facilities. 


THE MP BATTALION (I/R) 


5-24. The MP battalion (I/R) is a modular organization and can be configured 
to operate internment facilities for EPWs/CIs, confine US military prisoners, 
or 
resettle 
dislocated 
civilians. 
When 
performing 
EPW/CI 
internment 
operations, the MP brigade (I/R) has up to 7 MP battalions (I/R); when 
augmented with the appropriate number of BLDs, it has up to 21 MP 
battalions (I/R). The ASCC, the TSC, and the MP brigade (I/R) must consider 
that the requirement to establish an MP battalion (I/R) internment facility is 
resource intensive. Therefore, MP I/R units, other supporting units, supplies, 
and equipment for the EPWs/CIs should arrive in theater ahead of the 
projected EPW/CI arrival at the internment facilities. Early arrival should be 
based on the time required to establish fully operational facilities (construct 
and man) and resupply operations before the EPWs/CIs arrive. 


FM 3-19.1 


Military Police Support to Echelons Above Corps 5-7 


5-25. The 
MP 
battalion 
(I/R) 
has 
a 
command 
section, 
a 
company 
headquarters, and various staff sections. The staff sections provide the core 
battalion-level capabilities to conduct internment operations. The modulated 
design expands as the EPW/CI population increases. The battalion is assigned 
up to four detachments, two guard companies and, if needed, a processing 
squad. When fully operational, an MP battalion (I/R) operates an enclosure 
capable of interning 4,000 EPWs/CIs. The battalion mission centers on eight 
500-man compounds. The battalion operates the compounds in close proximity 
to maximize its resources for the security and internment of the EPWs/CIs. 
This includes the resources needed to employ EPWs/CIs as a labor force 
according to the provisions of the Geneva convention. 


5-26. Each MP detachment (I/R) (EPW/CI) operates two 500-man compounds 
and provides augmentation to the battalion staff sections to support 1,000 
EPWs/CIs. Each guard company is capable of providing security for 2,000 
EPWs/CIs. The guard company has a company headquarters and three 
platoons. The guard company requires sufficient mobility and communications 
to 
support 
routine 
battalion 
missions. 
While 
minimum 
mobility 
and 
communications is required to support EPW/CI internment operations, on-site 
guard personnel must often move considerable distances guarding labor 
groups performing work projects throughout the COMMZ. 


5-27. The MP (EPW/CI) processing squad is capable of processing eight 
EPWs/CIs per hour and includes interpreters to support the processing. If 
processing 
squads 
are 
required 
to 
augment 
MP 
battalions 
(I/R), 
the 
operational requirements will be based on METT-TC. 


MP-Battalion Resettlement Operations 


5-28. The basic organization used for EPW/CI internment is used for 
resettlement operations. The primary mission-focus change is from guarding 
EPWs/CIs to protecting and controlling dislocated civilians. As such, an MP 
battalion (I/R) with four detachments and two guard companies is capable of 
supporting 8,000 dislocated civilians. However, the MP battalion (I/R) may 
require augmentation to conduct L&O operations associated with the 
resettlement. Augmentation may include the full scope of PM functions 
(operations, investigations, physical security, MP-station operations, and 
patrols) and civil affairs. 


MP-Battalion Confinement Operations 


5-29. When configured with the MP detachment (I/R) (confinement), the MP 
battalion (I/R) is capable of confining US military prisoners. The MP 
detachment (I/R) (confinement) provides trained corrections and support 
personnel 
required 
for 
confinement 
operations. 
As 
with 
the 
EPW/CI 
configuration, the modular confinement structure expands as the US prisoner 
population increases. With three confinement detachments and three guard 
companies, the MP battalion (I/R) has a maximum capacity of handling 1,500 
US prisoners. Generally, only one MP brigade battalion (I/R) is configured for 
confinement, but the actual number will depend on the number of US 
prisoners requiring confinement within a theater. While theater policy for 
confinement operations remains with the ASCC commander, it is the MP 
brigade (I/R) that executes the mission. 


FM 3-19.1 


5-8 Military Police Support to Echelons Above Corps 


5-30. When possible, soldiers awaiting trial remain in their units unless 
reasonable grounds exist to believe that they will not appear at the trial, the 
pretrial hearing, or the investigation or that they will engage in serious 
criminal 
misconduct. 
Under 
either 
of 
these 
two 
pretrial 
confinement 
instances, the commander must also reasonably believe that a less severe 
form of restraint (such as conditions of liberty, restriction in lieu of 
apprehension, or apprehension) is inadequate. When these circumstances 
exist and other legal requirements are met, US military personnel may be 
placed in pretrial confinement under the MP’s direct control. Commanders 
may choose to establish field confinement facilities within their AO. However, 
corps and division MP companies have the expertise to operate only a field 
detention facility for a limited period of time. These units cannot operate a 
confinement facility and have neither the resources nor the capability to 
operate such a facility on an extended basis. Therefore, all confinement is 
consolidated in the COMMZ whenever possible. 


5-31. All assets of the MP battalion (I/R) (confinement) are employed to 
detain, confine, sustain, and protect US prisoners. As with the battalions 
conducting EPW/CI and resettlement operations, the battalion conducting 
confinement operations is generally located in the rear of the COMMZ, near 
logistics and transportation support. This allows US prisoners to be moved as 
quickly as possible from the corps’s area to the COMMZ’s confinement facility. 
Movements of US prisoners from the COMMZ to CONUS will be according to 
DA policy. 


Military Police Support to Corps 6-1 


Chapter 6 


Military Police Support to Corps 


Corps MP support their command by performing the MP functions 
critical to the success of their tactical commander’s concept of 
operations. 


USAMPS 


Corps are the largest tactical units in the US Army. They are the 
instruments 
by 
which 
higher 
echelons 
conduct 
operations 
at 
the 
operational level. Higher headquarters tailor corps for the theater and the 
mission for which they are deployed. They contain organic combat, CS, and 
CSS capabilities to sustain operations for a considerable period of time. 
Corps are capable of operating in a joint and multinational environment, 
providing C2 for up to five divisions and covering up to 35,000 square 
kilometers. 


OVERVIEW 


6-1. MP support to a corps is provided by an MP brigade (CS) assigned to each 
corps. The MP brigade provides combat, CS, and CSS throughout the corps’s 
AO. However, subordinate MP units are not assigned to subordinate corps 
units. Instead, the MP brigade commander gives them an AO based on the 
corps commander’s concept of operations. When possible, MP battalion AOs 
coincide with those of the CSG RAOCs. 


6-2. The corps MP provide combat power within the command’s rear area. 
They perform combat operations to counter Level II forces and to support the 
defeat of Level III forces. When properly augmented, the MP brigade may 
serve as the corps’s TCF. The corps MP also provide a critical link between MP 
operations in the division and in the COMMZ. The corps MP support division 
commanders by helping the division MP conduct sustainment operations. The 
corps MP coordinate with the division MP for mutual support. 


THE MILITARY POLICE BRIGADE (COMBAT SUPPORT) 


6-3. The MP brigade (CS) supporting a corps contains a brigade headquarters, 
up to six MP battalions (CS), numerous L&O detachments, and MWD teams. 
Each MP battalion (CS) has up to six MP companies (CS). As with the EAC’s 
MP brigade (CS), the number of battalions and companies is determined by 
METT-TC. The corps MP brigade (CS) has additional companies to support 
each division and to provide security for the corps and COSCOM headquarters 
and corps ammunition storage areas (see Figure 6-1, page 6-2). 


FM 3-19.1 


6-2 Military Police Support to Corps 


6-4. The MP brigade HHC provides C2 and A/L support to the brigade. The 
brigade HHC consists of a company headquarters and a brigade headquarters 
that contains the commander’s immediate staff. The staff officers supervise 
the brigade’s major organizational elements, including the— 
• 
S1, S2, S3, S4, and S5. 
• 
MP long-range plans (LRP) section. 
• 
Communications section. 
• 
SJA. 
• 
IG. 
• 
Public affairs. 
• 
Unit ministry team (UMT). 


6-5. The MP brigade (CS) command sergeant major (CSM) requires mobility 
and communications capabilities to execute his duties and responsibilities. 
The MP LRP section works with the corps G3 plans element, operating out of 
the corps main CP. 


6-6. The MP battalion headquarters and headquarters detachment (HHD) 
provides C2 for MP CS companies and any other assigned or attached MP 
elements. The battalion HHD consists of a detachment headquarters and a 


Figure 6-1. Military Police and USACIDC Organizations 


ÿþýüûúùùùø÷÷öõøôóøòñðø 


ÿþýüûúü 


S-1 
S-3 


S-2 


UMT 


S-4 


S-5 


MPLRP 
SJA 


HQ CO 


CMD SEC 
CO HQ 
COMMO 


ÿ 


Bde HQ 
HQ Co 


Cmd Sec 
S2 
S4 


S1 
S3 
S5 


Co HQ 
Commo 


MP LRP 
SJA 
UMT 


19672L000 HHC, MP Bde 


FM 3-19.1 


Military Police Support to Corps 6-3 


battalion headquarters that contains the battalion commander’s staff. The 
staff officers supervise the major organizational elements, including the— 
• 
S1, S2, S3, and S4. 
• 
Communications and support sections. 
• 
UMT. 


6-7. As with the MP brigade (CS), the battalion CSM requires mobility and 
communications. The support section is vital to an MP battalion commander’s 
ability to sustain his widely dispersed assigned or attached units during the 
performance of all five MP functions, primarily the MMS and AS functions. 


6-8. The MP company (CS) provides support to an assigned AO. The company 
has a company headquarters, an MP operations center, a combat-medic 
section, and four platoons. The company headquarters provides maintenance, 
supply, communications, mess, and medical support to the unit. An MP 
operations center supports the unit’s operation, conducting and planning for 
all five MP functions. The MP operations center includes three MP teams as 
the company-level response force. 


6-9. The MP L&O detachments provide support to an assigned AO. The 
headquarters provides A/L support. The operation team plans and supervises 
desk operations, the traffic-accident and MP-investigation teams, and the 
force-protection teams. As with the EAC MP brigade (CS) detachments, 
requirements are based on the population supported and on METT-TC. 


6-10. The number of assigned MWD teams is significantly less than those 
assigned to the EAC MP (CS) or (I/R) brigades. A kennel master, five 
explosive/patrol teams, and four narcotics/patrol teams are normally assigned 
to the corps MP brigade (CS). They are employed based on METT-TC. 


COMMAND AND CONTROL 


6-11. The C2 in a corps MP brigade (CS) is consistent with that of any Army 
brigade. The MP brigade commander commands the brigade and all attached 
personnel. Battalion commanders work for the brigade commander. The MP 
company commanders receive their orders and work for their respective 
battalion commanders and direct their platoon leaders according to mission 
requirements. 


6-12. When corps MP assets are sent to augment the division PM or the MP 
company, they are placed under the OPCON of the division PM for as long as 
the unit is needed in the division area. This command relationship is 
applicable to company-size organizations and smaller. If an MP battalion (or 
larger MP unit) augments the division, then the division PM will not exercise 
OPCON of that MP unit. The MP battalion will be placed OPCON as 
designated by the division commander but not under the division PM. One 
L&O detachment is normally attached to the supported division and placed 
OPCON to the division PM. However, MP leaders at each level establish an 
MP C2 relationship based on METT-TC and the supported commander’s 
needs. 


FM 3-19.1 


6-4 Military Police Support to Corps 


EMPLOYMENT 


6-13. Each corps MP brigade commander employs his assets according to 
METT-TC, the needs of the forces operating in his AO, and the priorities of the 
corps commander. Few MP assets in the corps area are employed to support 
fixed commitments. Instead, based on a broad consideration of the enemy and 
friendly situations, the corps MP are employed to support friendly forces 
engaged in combat, CS, and CSS operations. Since MP forces are dispersed 
throughout the corps area, the concentration of US forces, the location and 
vulnerability of critical sites, and the number of kilometers of the MSR to be 
controlled influence the designation of MP assets in the AO. 


6-14. The MP brigade commander establishes his MP concept of operations 
based on the corps commander's concept of operations. His successful 
employment of MP assets depends on his foreseeing where the battle will be 
rather than where the battle is. Based on the rear-area IPB and PIAP, the MP 
brigade 
commander 
allocates 
and 
shifts 
resources 
to 
ensure 
the 
accomplishment of priority missions. This ensures the continuous support and 
forward sustainment of combat units and the safety of CSS units operating in 
the corps rear and sustainment areas. 


6-15. To support the MP brigade commander's planning, the MP at brigade 
headquarters operate from several locations. Most of the staff locates in the 
vicinity of the corps rear CP where they can interface with the corps staff 
responsible for planning and executing rear operations. The control element of 
the brigade headquarters must be located where it can command and control 
its subordinate units. The brigade commander and his staff decide the best 
place to locate this element. The planning element of the headquarters locates 
near the corps main CP where it can interface with the corps commander’s 
coordinating, special, and personal staffs. From there they monitor MP 
operations, integrate MP support with the corps plans cell for future 
operations, and learn the enemy situation through the G2’s threat analysis 
almost immediately. The detailed information on rear-area activities and 
operations provided by the corps staff enhances the accuracy of the MP LRP. 


6-16. The brigade S3 section provides the day-to-day planning and execution 
of an MP mission. The section provides a responsive CP that can relocate 
frequently throughout the AO. The S3 will normally provide liaison personnel 
to the corps rear CP, selected COSCOM units, interagencies, or other 
headquarters (based on mission requirements). When possible, battalion AOs 
coincide with the AOs of the CSG RAOCs. The MP brigade commander 
usually tailors battalions' AO boundaries to ensure responsive and flexible 
support across the corps’s AO. He pays particular attention to the LOC behind 
the most heavily committed division and the critical bases and facilities in 
that area. He also ensures that the MP are available to respond quickly to 
combat 
operations 
throughout 
the 
entire 
corps 
rear 
area 
or 
during 
sustainment operations. 


6-17. The 
MP 
brigade 
commander, 
coordinating 
with 
his 
battalion 
commanders, locates the MP companies where they can provide combat and 
CS power throughout the corps’s AO. He bases his decision on the— 
• 
Number and composition of urban areas. 


FM 3-19.1 


Military Police Support to Corps 6-5 


• 
Location of CS and CSS units. 
• 
Location of critical facilities (such as the headquarters, ammunition 
storage areas, and airfields). 
• 
Expected threat. 
• 
Level and frequency of support needed by the commander. 
• 
Current and projected tactical situation. 
• 
MSR network, including choke points and critical bridges and tunnels. 
• 
Number of supported divisions and requirements. 


6-18. The prioritization of MP missions is especially crucial during the early 
stages of the deployment when it is unlikely that an MP brigade commander 
will have a full complement of CS companies. Augmenting the division MP 
company with corps MP assets may not be possible at that time. Until it is, the 
MP brigade commander must locate corps MP assets to help meet the needs of 
the division while fulfilling the needs of the corps. 


6-19. Like 
the 
brigade 
commander, 
battalion 
commanders 
plan 
the 
employment of their companies and platoons using METT-TC. Certain corps 
needs are constant. One MP company is allocated to provide security for the 
COSCOM, and one MP company is allocated to provide security for the corps’s 
main CP. One platoon from that company may be used to secure the corps 
tactical CP or the jump CP. One or more platoons will also help secure the 
corps’s rear CP. The number of MP assets allocated for a corps-level EPW/CI 
holding area and escort is based on METT-TC. However, a minimum of one 
platoon is dedicated to operate the corps’s EPW/CI holding area and a 
minimum of one platoon per division is allocated for evacuating EPWs/CIs 
from division collection points. Additional MP assets may be allocated to 
provide security for the corps’s ammunition storage area and ASPs supporting 
the divisions. The MP battalion commander places his companies where— 


• 
MP assets support the brigade commander’s concept of operations. 
• 
The MP can support troop concentration, bases and base clusters, road 
networks, and critical areas. 
• 
The MP can aggressively patrol critical terrain and monitor LZs and 
DZs to detect or deny enemy interference. 
• 
The MP can respond to Level II threats. 
• 
The MP can support the movement of combat resources throughout 
the AO. 
• 
The MP can remove EPWs/CIs from division collection points. 
• 
The MP can influence stragglers, refugees, and dislocated civilians. 


6-20. Battalion commanders may choose to place a company behind the 
division rear boundary. This can help to ease the coordination between the 
corps MP and the division MP. 


Military Police Support to Division 7-1 


Chapter 7 


Military Police Support to Division 


Division MP provide essential support to the forward tactical 
commander. The MP provide a flexible, mobile, and lethal force ready 
to be employed in combat or CS operations. 


USAMPS 


The division is a large Army organization that trains and fights as a 
tactical team. Largely self-sustaining, it is capable of independent 
operations. The division is a unit of maneuver organized with varying 
numbers and types of combat, CS, and CSS units. Divisions fall mainly 
into two categories—heavy or light. The first category includes heavy 
divisions, their variants, and the Division XXI digitized heavy division. 
The second category includes the light infantry, airborne, and air-assault 
divisions. Each division can conduct operations over a wide range of 
environments. The success of Army operations depends on the success of 
its divisions. 


OVERVIEW 


7-1. In corps operations, divisions are normally comprised of three maneuver 
brigades, each with up to nine maneuver battalions, artillery battalions, 
aviation battalions, and supporting CS and CSS units. Divisions perform a wide 
range of tactical missions and are self-sustaining for limited periods of time. 
The corps augments divisions as the mission requires. All divisions must be able 
to deploy and conduct offensive, defensive, stability, and support operations. 
Airborne and air-assault divisions must be able to conduct forced-entry 
operations. Divisions may be part of a JTF or serve as the ARFOR 
headquarters. 


7-2. MP support to a division is provided by an organic MP company that 
includes the PM and his staff (assigned to each division) and is augmented by 
the corps MP brigade. The division MP company provides support in the DRA 
and in the maneuver brigade rear area. It is fully mobile in order to relocate 
frequently under short notice. While division MP companies are capable of 
performing all five MP functions, they must be augmented by corps MP/CID to 
fully perform all five MP functions throughout the division’s battle space. The 
division PM must receive at least one corps MP company for GS missions in the 
DRA, one L&O detachment for L&O missions, and one CID detachment for 
criminal investigations and LOGSEC. In a mature theater (or based on 
METT-TC), the division PM can expect two corps MP companies. In addition, 
the division PM may request a corps MP battalion headquarters to provide C2 


to corps MP units operating in the DRA or to perform missions as a TCF. 
Because the need for MP support exceeds division organic assets (and many 


FM 3-19.1 


7-2 Military Police Support to Division 


times 
exceeds 
augmenting 
corps 
MP 
assets), 
careful 
planning 
of 
MP 
employment is essential. 


DIVISION MILITARY POLICE COMPANY 


7-3. The organization of the division MP company is set by specific tables of 
organization and equipment (TOE) and is designed to support a specific type 
of division. Regardless of the type of division, the assets in a division MP 
company enable a PM and his supporting staff to supervise the performance of 
all five MP functions. The PM coordinates the employment of the MP assets in 
the division’s AO through his PM section. The division MP company contains 
a headquarters, a PM section, a medic section, and three to six platoons. 


COMMAND AND CONTROL 


7-4. The C2 of the division MP company extends downward from the tactical 
commander to the division PM. The division PM is the division commander’s 
special staff officer. Under normal circumstances, he works for the chief of staff. 
The division PM has OPCON of the division MP company and MP assets that 
have been provided by the corps. The division PM plans and employs all of the 
organic, assigned, or attached MP according to METT-TC. He anticipates the 
support needs of the division commander and plans the employment to meet his 
needs. After learning the division commander’s concept of operations and 
estimating the situation, the division PM decides which MP functions are 
critical to accomplish the commander’s mission. He then recommends the 
allocation of resources, tasks his assets, and establishes the priority of support. 


7-5. When the division MP company is augmented by corps MP platoons, the 
platoons are placed under the direction of the division MP company commander, 
who assigns an AO to each platoon. When corps MP assets augmenting the 
division make up a company, the company is attached to the division. The 
company then comes under the OPCON of the PM, who assigns it an AO. The 
augmenting corps MP company is usually given an AO from the division rear 
boundary forward. However, this assignment is flexible and based on the 
division commander’s needs as set forth by the division PM. The four platoons of 
that corps MP company perform all five MP functions in that AO. Additionally, 
the corps MP brigade (CS) L&O detachment supporting a division is attached to 
the division and OPCON to the division PM. 


7-6. The division MP company commander directs the employment of company 
assets. Through his company headquarters, he provides administrative, 
maintenance, and logistical support to the PM section and to the company’s 
platoons that are dispersed throughout the division’s AO. These sections are 
mobile to support the platoons without delay despite the extended distances 
that may be separating them. The company commander is also mobile. He 
travels the extended distances from one platoon area to another when checking 
on the status of his soldiers and resolving the problems affecting mission 
accomplishment. 
The 
division 
HHC 
provides 
mess 
support. 
Personnel 
administration is handled by the company headquarters and the DISCOM. The 
number and kind of assets in a division MP company and the configuration of 
its platoons and squads are determined by the type of division to which the 
company is assigned. 


FM 3-19.1 


Military Police Support to Division 7-3 


NOTE: See the consolidated TOE update that is published yearly for 
complete details (base and objective) for all MP TOEs. 


7-7. At the direction of the division commander, the division band may be 
available to perform its secondary mission of supporting MP operations. When 
the intensity of the conflict prevents the band from performing its musical 
mission, the division commander may direct it to augment the MP company. 
The band, normally employed as a unit under the direction of the bandmaster, 
is under the OPCON of the MP company commander while augmenting the 
MP. When tasked to augment MP assets, band members may be employed to 
augment MP security at the division main CP or to augment perimeter 
security at the division EPW/CI collection point. The band is released to 
perform its primary mission as soon as the tactical situation permits. 


MILITARY POLICE EMPLOYMENT 


7-8. The employment of division MP companies differs somewhat with the 
type of division to which they are assigned. In heavy divisions, the division 
MP companies provide GS to the DRA and DS to the division’s maneuver 
brigades. When the platoon is providing DS to a maneuver brigade, the MP 
platoon leader coordinates all logistical support with the supported brigade. A 
platoon’s DS relationship is seldom interrupted. However, METT-TC may 
require weighing MP support to the maneuver brigade tasked as the main 
effort or employing all platoons in a division MP company to function as a unit 
(such as during division-size river-crossing operations or deliberate breaching 
operations). In light divisions, the MP provide only GS to the DRA or during 
sustainment operations. Support exceptions are addressed under MP support 
to airborne and air-assault divisions, discussed later in this chapter. 


7-9. In the division (where flexible support of an austere force is crucial), the 
division PM must have a clear understanding of situational awareness. To 
obtain current information for projecting MP needs in the division area, he 
must be mobile and be able to conduct split-cell operations. The assets 
available to the PM include the division MP company and at least one corps 
MP company. Corps augmentation is required for sustained operations and for 
special operations such as river crossings, dealing with dislocated civilians, 
and refugee internment or resettlement. The division PM coordinates with the 
corps PM and the MP brigade or CID commanders for— 
• 
Evacuating and guarding EPWs/CIs from division to corps. 
• 
Providing law-enforcement assistance to HN forces in the division’s 
AO. 
• 
Providing corps augmentation for the division’s AO, convoy security, 
LOC security, AS, R&S, L&O, and other missions. These other 
missions may include augmentation for security of the division main 
CP, ASPs, and other critical facilities. 
• 
Integrating, sharing, and exchanging police intelligence between corps 
and division MP elements. 
• 
Providing CID support. 


FM 3-19.1 


7-4 Military Police Support to Division 


SUPPORT TO THE HEAVY DIVISION 


7-10. The Army’s armored and mechanized infantry divisions (normally 
referred to as heavy divisions) provide mobile, armor-protected firepower that 
is 
normally 
employed 
for 
their 
mobility, 
survivability, 
lethality, 
and 
psychological effect (shock) on the enemy. These divisions destroy enemy 
armored and mechanized forces, and they can seize land areas and secure key 
terrain. Because of their strategic lift requirements, heavy divisions are slow 
to deploy from home staging bases into an AO. They have high consumption 
rates of supplies and have limited use in restrictive terrain. These capabilities 
and limitations are key factors in planning effective and efficient MP support 
throughout the division’s AO. 


7-11. In the heavy divisions, the PM section is organized to support split-cell 
operations at the main and rear CPs. The PM must be mobile to ensure that 
he is fully aware of the current status of critical MP operations. Therefore, the 
deputy PM (DPM) locates in one of the PM cells and— 
• 
Handles the section’s routine operations. 
• 
Monitors ongoing division operations and MP support. 
• 
Helps provide long-range planning and interface with the primary 
division staff. 
• 
Forwards PM taskings to the division MP company commander. 


7-12. The DPM and the operations sergeant normally set up operations at the 
division main CP where they can coordinate requirements with the division 
staff personnel. The company headquarters is initially located near the 
division rear CP in the division support area (DSA). Once augmentation 
arrives from the corps, the headquarters relocates with one of its GS platoons 
operating behind the brigade rear boundary. However, this location could be 
changed based on METT-TC, the supported commander’s needs, and the 
company commander’s idea of where he can exercise better C2 for his unit. 


7-13. The Army of Excellence (AOE) heavy division MP company has six 
platoons. Three platoons provide support to each maneuver brigade and are 
designated as DS. The other three platoons are designated as GS platoons. 
One MP platoon provides security for the division main CP; one provides 
security for the division’s EPW central collection point; and one performs 
other MP operations within the division rear. 


7-14. The GS MP platoons’ AOs are configured based on METT-TC and the 
availability of MP augmentation from the corps. The DS MP platoons’ AOs 
coincide with the supported maneuver brigade’s boundary. Each platoon 
headquarters locates within its brigade’s support area or any other area 
where it can best provide and receive support. To accomplish its mission, each 
DS platoon requires a minimum of two squads, each with three teams. One 
squad operates the EPW/CI collection point. The other squads perform MMS 
and AS operations. All MP platoons are capable of performing all five MP 
functions. However, performance of these functions is prioritized based on 
METT-TC and the division commander’s concept of operations. The division 
PM, the company commander, and METT-TC dictate how these platoons 
should be tasked-organized to accomplish the mission. 


FM 3-19.1 


Military Police Support to Division 7-5 


SUPPORT TO THE LIGHT INFANTRY DIVISION 


7-15. The AOE light infantry division (LID) is one of the most rapidly and 
strategically deployable divisions. It fights as part of a larger force in war or 
conducts missions as part of a joint force in MOOTW. Its C2 structure readily 
accepts 
any 
augmentation 
forces, 
permitting 
task-organizing 
for 
any 
situation. The augmentation required for the division is largely determined by 
METT-TC. The division’s capabilities allow it to exploit the advantages of 
restricted terrain and limited visibility. It achieves mass through the 
combined effects of synchronized small-unit operations and fires rather than 
through the physical concentration of forces on the battlefield. These 
characteristics are key factors in planning and employing MP assets in 
support of the LID. 


7-16. The LID MP companies are capable of performing all five MP functions. 
However, their performance of these functions is prioritized based on 
METT-TC and the division commander’s concept of operations. Contrary to 
the heavy division MP company, the LID MP companies are much smaller. 
The constrained size of the LID MP companies makes corps MP augmentation 
crucial to the sustainment of MP operations. Additionally, the LID MP 
company is the only MP unit with the capability of antiaircraft support 
through the use of shoulder-fired air-defense weapons. 


7-17. The company has three GS platoons to support the division. No platoons 
are provided to the maneuver brigade. One platoon is normally located in the 
vicinity of the division main CP so that its resources can help support CP 
security. Another platoon locates in the DSA and operates the division EPW/ 
CI collection point. The last platoon has an AO configured according to METT- 
TC and the commander’s priority of MP missions. Each GS MP platoon has a 
headquarters and three squads, each with two teams. The PM section is 
located in the vicinity of the division main CP. The exact location is based on 
the current operational status and on METT-TC. 


SUPPORT TO THE AIRBORNE DIVISION 


7-18. The AOE airborne division can rapidly deploy anywhere in the world to 
seize and secure vital objectives. It conducts parachute assaults to capture 
initial lodgments, executes large-scale tactical raids, secures intermediate 
staging bases (ISBs) or forward operating bases (FOBs) for ground and air 
operations, and rescues US nationals besieged overseas. It can also serve as a 
strategic or theater reserve as well as a reinforcement for forward-presence 
forces. The airborne division can assault deep into the enemy’s rear area to 
secure terrain or to interdict enemy supply and withdrawal routes. It can seize 
and repair airfields to provide a FOB and airheads for follow-on air-landed 
forces. It is capable of all other missions assigned to LIDs. The airborne 
division does not have sufficient armored protection to defeat heavier armored 
formations at close range. Therefore, engagements with enemy armored 
formations require special considerations. Antitank weapons in the division 
compensate for, but do not completely offset, this deficit. 


7-19. Airborne divisions conduct operations in two phases—assault and 
defense. The division accomplishes the assault phase in three stages. First, 


FM 3-19.1 


7-6 Military Police Support to Division 


they deploy; second, they establish the airhead; and third, they extend the 
logistics base and build their force. 


7-20. Like other division MP companies, those assigned to the airborne 
division are employed to support their division commander’s concept of 
operations. The airborne MP company has four platoons, each having three 
squads with two teams. Normally, the company headquarters and one of the 
platoon headquarters colocates with the PM section. The division PM’s exact 
location depends on METT-TC. During the assault phase, the airborne 
division MP company provides DS to the assault brigade. The remaining 
platoons provide MMS and AS in the vicinity of the division main CP. 


7-21. The nature of airborne operations makes the capture of EPWs likely. 
Therefore, during the first stage of the assault phase, the priority of MP 
support is given to EPW operations. After assembling the DZ or LZ, the MP 
collect EPWs captured during the assault. Combat elements are relieved of 
EPWs as far forward as possible. In airborne operations, EPWs are held for 
later movement to a central collection point. During the first stage of the 
assault, the MP perform limited straggler and refugee control and undertake 
AS operations, when possible. 


7-22. MP support is reevaluated after the airhead is established in the second 
stage of the assault. The PM takes in consideration personnel and equipment 
flow, roadways, and security requirements to shift MP support priorities. As the 
entire operation matures, MP support may expand to include all five MP 
functions. 


SUPPORT TO THE AIR-ASSAULT DIVISION 


7-23. The air-assault division executes tactical missions at operational depths 
to achieve strategic results. It is capable of launching brigade-size air assaults 
of nearly 4,000 soldiers from either an ISB or a tactical assembly area (TAA). 
Within 6 hours, this air-assault task force (AATF) can attack an opposing 
force, occupy and defend key terrain, or establish a FOB (out to 150 
kilometers) from which even deeper operations can be executed. Air-assault 
operations are terrain independent, but they rely on suitable weather and a 
detailed attrition/assessment of enemy capability—particularly air-defense 
assets along air corridors and in the objective area. The air assault is preceded 
by detailed, lethal and nonlethal condition settings, culminating in a 
comprehensive condition check before execution. 


7-24. As the corps AATF unit, the brigade combat team (BCT) task-organizes 
and habitually trains with both aviation lift and attack (Apache) battalions. 
An air-assault division MP company has four platoons, each having three 
squads with two teams. To facilitate operations, air-assault division MP 
platoons are habitually aligned with each of the three AOE BCTs; however, as 
with aviation assets, the MP are task-organized to support the main effort’s 
BCT/AATF. When conducting these operations, two MP platoons may be 
tasked to provide support; one is available to posture and participate in the air 
assault, and the other conducts AS and MMS operations at the pickup zone 
(PZ). This second MP platoon may further provide MMS and accompany a 
ground-assault convoy (GAC) to the objective, or it may remain at the PZ to 
receive EPWs returning on aircraft from the objective area. The mission of 


FM 3-19.1 


Military Police Support to Division 7-7 


conducting MMS along this vulnerable ground LOC is particularly critical if 
the AATF objective is a FOB from which further division operations will 
expand. 


7-25. MP participation in the actual air assault competes for heavy lift with 
FA and air-defense systems, as well as with vital Class V resupply. However, 
the lethality and versatility of the MP bode well for their employment, and 
two MP platoons are available to support the brigade air assault as the 
division's center of gravity. 


7-26. When possible, habitually aligned platoons remain with their brigades, 
and corps assets perform GS missions. However, when no corps assets are 
available and two division platoons are employed as stated above, the two 
remaining platoons conduct division EPW collection-point operations and 
other MP functions based on METT-TC. Normally, the EPW platoon and the 
MP company headquarters colocate in the DSA. As required (and based on 
METT-TC), airflow planning includes EPW/CI evacuation from the AATF/ 
FOB collection point back to the DSA. The PM section operates from the 
division rear CP to facilitate I/R operations and to coordinate MMS and AS 
with key logistical staff. Due to potentially extreme distances on the air- 
assault battlefield, the DPM normally locates with the division main CP to 
serve as a key G3 battle-staff member and to coordinate PIO with the G2. 


SUPPORT TO DIVISION XXI (HEAVY DIVISION) 


7-27. Division XXI represents a significant change in the manner in which 
division 
operations 
are 
conducted. 
These 
changes 
are 
brought 
on 
by 
information-age capabilities; an increased integration of service components 
into an effective battle team; more lethal, survivable, and agile systems; and 
more capable soldiers and leaders. The Division XXI operates in a larger 
battle space and at a higher tempo than the AOE division. The division is 
evolutionary in design, but revolutionary in its use of information technology. 
It improves the Army’s deployability while enhancing its ability to dominate 
in decisive fights. The following are characteristics of the Division XXI 
operational environment: 
• 
Multidimensional. The division will operate in an extended battle 
space that goes beyond the traditional physical dimension of width, 
depth, 
and height. 
It 
includes 
portions 
of the 
electromagnetic 
spectrum; and it extends beyond the physical boundaries of the 
division through its communication and digital connectivity to other 
Army, joint, and coalition elements, even reaching back to CONUS. 
• 
Precise. Precision operations go beyond a precision strike to include 
every aspect of military operations from deployment through combat 
and through redeployment or transition to other operations. Precision 
in decisive operations is enabled by three emerging capabilities. First, 
digitization 
provides 
soldiers 
and 
leaders 
at 
each 
echelon 
the 
information required for making decisions. Second, a full suite of 
strategic, operational, and tactical sensors linked to analytical teams 
fuses combat information into situational awareness across the battle 
space. Third, simulations enable Army elements to be tailored and 
operations 
to 
be 
planned, 
war-gamed, 
and 
rehearsed—yielding 
precision execution. 


FM 3-19.1 


7-8 Military Police Support to Division 


• 
Nonlinear. Nonlinear operations do not seek a battle-space grid of 
close, deep, and rear operations. Instead, the battle space is fluid, 
changing as METT-TC changes through the duration of mission 
preparation and execution. Another dimension of this characteristic is 
the 
synchronization 
of 
near-simultaneous 
operations 
to 
achieve 
nonlinear effects across the battle space. 
• 
Distributed. Division operations are distributed or executed where 
and when required to achieve decisive effects concentrated at a 
decisive 
point. 
Dispersion 
empowers 
subordinates 
to 
operate 
independently within the commander's intent, leading to synergistic 
effects that exceed the effects of a centralized headquarters. 
• 
Simultaneous. The conc
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