If I want to join the military police, what sort of training should I expect? Is it similar to civilian police training, and how long does it typically last?
Training for military police, like in most branches of the military, is typically broken into two main parts: Basic Training and Advanced Individual Training (AIT).
First, you would undergo Basic Training (also known as boot camp). This usually lasts for around 10 weeks and it's the same for every individual within the branch you choose—Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard. This part of your training focuses on physical fitness, basic tactical skills, and military customs and traditions.
After Basic Training, you would move into Advanced Individual Training. This is where your specialized training for the military police role begins. The length and curriculum of AIT can vary depending on the specific military branch, but typically, this lasts for 8-12 weeks.
In the AIT for military police, you would learn law enforcement methods, crime scene processing, arrest procedures, how to use various types of military police equipment, and other related skills. This is similar to civilian police training, but with an added focus on military-specific procedures and laws.
Keep in mind, the exact nature, length, and content of the training could vary depending on the branch of the military you join, and additional training may be required for more specialized roles within military police.
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