A military police officer is a police officer who works for a military organization and performs his duties on their behalf. A person with this job may be responsible for a variety of tasks. He could be assigned to tasks such as patrolling a military base and responding to emergency police calls, as well as checking IDs before allowing people into secure areas and escorting prisoners of war during wartime. The specific duties a military police officer performs are determined by the armed services organization for which he works and the organization’s current needs.
A military police officer’s job may include ensuring that only authorized personnel or visitors are permitted access to military facilities. A person with this job might, for example, be stationed at a gate and ask passers-by for identification. He may allow only those who are authorized to enter and refuse entry to others. In many cases, he will be in charge of performing this type of duty at a checkpoint that not only allows people in, but also their vehicles.
A military police officer may be assigned to patrol a military base, and in this capacity, he may perform many of the same duties as a civilian police officer. He usually keeps an eye out for unusual activity, responds to any illegal activity he notices, and gathers evidence. He may also be in charge of enforcing traffic laws and ensuring that people drive within the speed limit. A person with this job might, for example, use RADAR to catch people who are speeding. A military police officer may also respond to emergency calls and illegal activity reports. He may also respond to general complaints that aren’t life threatening.
Field missions are also possible for military police officers. During times of war, for example, a military police officer may be called upon to escort prisoners. He could also assist military units in negotiating travel and arriving at their destinations on time. Setting up compounds for detaining prisoners or participating in intelligence operations may be part of the job description for someone with this title.
The requirements for becoming a military police officer may vary depending on the organization in which he wishes to work. He’ll usually have to join a military organization, go through basic training, and attend military police school. He might also have to pass a series of physical and written tests.