Miitary Police Belt buckle

Brief History of the U.S. Army Military Police Warrant Officer

The Military Police Warrant Officer tradition grew alongside the increasing complexity of the U.S. Army Military Police mission. The Military Police Corps was formally established in 1941, although American military policing functions trace back to the Revolutionary War and the establishment of the Provost Marshal position in 1778.

As the Army's law-enforcement, investigations, corrections, detention, and security missions became increasingly specialized, Warrant Officers provided the technical expertise and continuity required in highly specialized areas of the Military Police profession. Military Police Warrant Officers have served particularly important roles in criminal investigations, including within the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division (CID), where warrant officers historically served as special agents, investigators, technical experts, and leaders.

Military Police Warrant Officers have supported Army operations in both peace and war—from installations in the United States to combat and contingency operations around the world. Their responsibilities have evolved alongside advances in investigative techniques, forensic science, protective services, intelligence, and law-enforcement technology.

Today, the legacy of the Military Police Warrant Officer represents the broader Warrant Officer tradition of technical competence, professional leadership, experience, and specialized expertise in support of Soldiers, commanders, and the Army mission.

Military Police Corps Motto:
“Assist, Protect, Defend.”