The job of the military police officer is more than arresting criminal offenders and pulling over motorists who exceed the speed limit. There are several subdivisions of this career field. While each military police officer attends the same basic training, each special duty requires specialized training.
Gate Guard
Most enlisted military police officers start their careers on gate guard duty. After September 11, 2001, all United States military installations became secure installations, and visitors must have a valid military ID card to gain access. Gate guards are tasked with checking ID cards and granting access to the installation. Gate guards will also conduct random vehicle searches and issue temporary passes for visitors to the base. Gate guards must guard their posts at all times, day or night, in all types of weather. Gate guard shifts are usually 8 to 12 hours long. This is arguably the toughest, most thankless job in the military police career field.
Patrol
Military police officers also patrol government property. While most patrols are conducted in a squad car, they may also be conducted on foot, bicycle, motorcycle or even horseback. Patrol officers enforce traffic laws and assist motorists and pedestrians. They also check and secure buildings on the installation and provide security details for buildings on base.
K-9 Handler
K-9 handlers are assigned their own military working dogs; the officer and dog work closely as a team. Currently, more than 1,200 military working dogs serve on active duty in all branches of the armed forces. They are used for bomb and drug detection and building searches, and they assist in random vehicle searches at the installation's gates. Military working dogs also assist with search and rescue efforts in the aftermath of disasters. Dogs and their handlers also participate in many community service projects, such as community outreach and military recruiting efforts.
Antiterrorism
Antiterrorism officers attend special training to help them identify terrorism risks and prevent attacks. This is especially useful for United States military installations on foreign soil, but there are also terrorism risks to installations located in the United States.
Dispatch
Military police officers also work the dispatch desk. These officers take calls that come into the military 9-1-1 system and dispatch officers where needed.
