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                         July 26, 2002

Military Police perform vast variety of unique functions

Story and photo by Spc. Nate Jastrzemski
Staff Writer 

As an easily recognizable presence at West Point, members of the Military Police Company can be spotted patrolling the roads at any time of day, but there are many functions they perform that the community may not be aware of -- many of which are unique to the U.S. Military Academy as an Army installation.

As one enters the main post, you will pass through security gates staffed by MPs who perform ID checks and vehicle search areas overseen by reservists -- a precaution that has caused some traffic delays, yet has proved an mitigated success in ceasing the flow of unauthorized personnel and illegal substances on post.

Visitors and newcomers will likely see MPs on patrol often, but there are other duties they perform that are essential to the community.

Sgt. 1st Class Marko Hakama, acting first sergeant in the MP company said, there are numerous events that require MP presence beyond the daily law enforcement mission -- graduation, reception day, high-profile conferences, shows and concerts at Eisenhower Hall -- that call for a certain elasticity not normally needed at other installations.

On top of that, are the many cadet sporting events, most notably the six Black Knights’ home football games, that draw huge crowds that demand a high level of organization and preparation to pull off smoothly.

Unique to West Point is a dedicated Honor Guard Platoon that perform funeral details, color guard and special ceremonies, said Hakama -- all daily occurrences at USMA.

Hakama also described the responsibilities of the Provost Marshall’s Office.

"Our PMO handles military police investigations, traffic accident investigations and vehicle registrations. It’s also where the desk sergeants and dispatchers are located, and it’s home to the operations cell that publishes operations orders and performs the coordination for major events.

"I encourage community members to enjoy the area and the history of West Point," Hakama concluded, "and to get out and see the surrounding areas and New York City."