551th MP deploys

The following article comes from the 716th Military Police Battalion, 101st Sustainment Brigade:

551st Military Police Company OIF Deployment Article


After an intensive training cycle in preparation for Operation Iraqi Freedom, the 551st Military Police Company deployed to Iraq in the early morning hours of August 13th. This deployment marks the unit’s second deployment to Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom, in addition to a previous deployment to Afghanistan in support of Operation Enduring Freedom. Under the command team of CPT Robert Eyman and 1SG Ivan Cornier, the 551st Military Police Company will move forward with the training and development of the Western Baghdad Iraqi Police to enhance the existing security and police capabilities in Iraq.

Soldiers and their families gathered at the 551st Military Police Company as Major General John Campbell and Command Sergeant Major Vincent Camacho expressed their appreciation for the unit’s service. They noted that very few individuals today choose to volunteer and serve their country in a time of war and the Soldiers of the unit deserve a debt of gratitude for their willingness and sacrifice. Major General Campbell also noted the importance of the 551st Military Police Company’s mission in the current efforts of Operation Iraqi Freedom. He said that training Iraqi Police is necessary for stabilizing Iraq and is critical with the shift in focus to operations in Afghanistan.

Command Sergeant Major Camacho encouraged the unit to take care of their buddies and focused on the importance of the Family Members, those present and those unable to attend the farewell ceremony. Command Sergeant Major Camacho promised the Soldiers he and Major General Campbell would help watch over their Families, but that each Soldier should keep their Families informed throughout the deployment.

The ceremony ended with Major General Campbell and Command Sergeant Major Camacho shaking each Soldier’s hand, personally expressing their gratitude for each Soldier’s service.

The 551st Military Police Company will be under the command of the 8th Military Police Brigade and 93rd Military Police Battalion for a 12-month deployment.