thedrifter
02-21-07, 11:14 AM
Military Police Protect Convoys
Marine Corps News | February 20, 2007
AL TAQADDUM, Iraq -- The presence of military policemen provide a feeling of safety for the convoys they protect. It is their mission to ensure the personnel and supplies of the convoy arrive safely at their destination.
"As a company, we are responsible for clearing the route of any threats that may be present in order to ensure the safe passage of the escorted convoy and any other coalition traffic that may be present," explained 1st Lt. Marvin L. Jackson, a platoon commander for Military Police Company, Combat Logistics Regiment 15, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward).
Jackson explained that, in preparation for convoys, his Marines receive route and zone intelligence updates and perform vehicle pre-operation checks. They also clarify standard operating procedures and review their immediate action drills prior to each mission.
"I believe the No. 1 enemy to coalition forces outside of the wire is complacency," the Fairmont, W.Va., native, said. "Remaining focused and taking things seriously ensures the safe and timely delivery of supplies that are needed to keep our troops well-equipped."
Many of MP Company's Marines share this mentality. One of the unit's junior Marines explained that he is very confident and always alert while participating in a security convoy.
"You have to be focused on not only what's going on in the environment around you ... but also what's occurring within the convoy," said Lance Cpl. Jonathan N. Maisonet, a military policeman with the company.
"The one time you may be complacent could be detrimental to you or your fellow Marines," the Tacoma, Wash., native, added. "Lives are on the line. It's as simple as that."
Sergeant Joshua K. Smith, a squad leader with MP Co., reiterated Maisonet's message.
"The lives of my fellow Marines and the civilians that work with us are on the line," the Washington, Ind., native said. "Vigilance is important because the first time you slip-up, it could cost your fellow Marines their lives. In my opinion, that is the most important reason for any servicemember out here to remain vigilant -- the person standing next to them."
By approaching each day with caution, these Marines steadily bring themselves closer to a safe return home. The situational awareness the Marines of MP Company have is more than a good match for their important responsibilities. It's a necessity.
Ellie
Marine Corps News | February 20, 2007
AL TAQADDUM, Iraq -- The presence of military policemen provide a feeling of safety for the convoys they protect. It is their mission to ensure the personnel and supplies of the convoy arrive safely at their destination.
"As a company, we are responsible for clearing the route of any threats that may be present in order to ensure the safe passage of the escorted convoy and any other coalition traffic that may be present," explained 1st Lt. Marvin L. Jackson, a platoon commander for Military Police Company, Combat Logistics Regiment 15, 1st Marine Logistics Group (Forward).
Jackson explained that, in preparation for convoys, his Marines receive route and zone intelligence updates and perform vehicle pre-operation checks. They also clarify standard operating procedures and review their immediate action drills prior to each mission.
"I believe the No. 1 enemy to coalition forces outside of the wire is complacency," the Fairmont, W.Va., native, said. "Remaining focused and taking things seriously ensures the safe and timely delivery of supplies that are needed to keep our troops well-equipped."
Many of MP Company's Marines share this mentality. One of the unit's junior Marines explained that he is very confident and always alert while participating in a security convoy.
"You have to be focused on not only what's going on in the environment around you ... but also what's occurring within the convoy," said Lance Cpl. Jonathan N. Maisonet, a military policeman with the company.
"The one time you may be complacent could be detrimental to you or your fellow Marines," the Tacoma, Wash., native, added. "Lives are on the line. It's as simple as that."
Sergeant Joshua K. Smith, a squad leader with MP Co., reiterated Maisonet's message.
"The lives of my fellow Marines and the civilians that work with us are on the line," the Washington, Ind., native said. "Vigilance is important because the first time you slip-up, it could cost your fellow Marines their lives. In my opinion, that is the most important reason for any servicemember out here to remain vigilant -- the person standing next to them."
By approaching each day with caution, these Marines steadily bring themselves closer to a safe return home. The situational awareness the Marines of MP Company have is more than a good match for their important responsibilities. It's a necessity.
Ellie