Military policeman Pfc. Andrew Capps, a Soldier attached to the 706th Military Intelligence Group, practices his baton strikes with Sgt. 1st Class Shane Mcgrew, 706th MP platoon sergeant. Mcgrew is suited up in heavily padded protective gear known as a “red man” suit. Military police assigned to the 706th Military Intelligence Group, conducted training on the expandable baton at the Fort Gordon Gym 5 August 2.

“Training is conducted to ensure Soldiers have many tools to use for their protection and can handle any situation,” said Sgt. 1st Class Shane Mcgrew, 706th MP platoon sergeant. “If the Soldiers are not qualified to use [the baton], legal ramifications could be brought against them. When these Soldiers are required to use this level of force, they will be prepared.”

Fourteen Soldiers took part in the training to learn the proper use of the baton and when to use it. Training on the baton is required before MPs can carry and use the weapon within the guidelines set forth in Army Regulation 190- 14, which governs Army military police’s use of force. This regulation outlines the process used to determine what level of force will be used in cases where force is needed. Training is conducted annually to recertify and qualify new policemen.

Military policeman Pfc. Andrew Capps, a Soldier attached to the 706th Military Intelligence Group, practices subduing an uncooperative suspect with military policeman Spc. Jeremy Wetherford, during a baton training course Aug. 2 at Fort Gordon Gym 5. The training consisted of 26 different techniques to

overcome and stabilize

an uncooperative subject

for apprehension.

Military policeman Spc.

Quentin Hutchinson

taught stances, patterns

of movement, baton grips, method of carry and subject control, as well as blocks, strikes, draws and takedowns during the course.

Military policeman Spc. Jeremy Weatherford, attached to the 706th Military Intelligence Group, practices his baton blocks with military policeman Spc. Jason Howard. After the initial training, Mcgrew suited up in protective gear known as a “red man” suit. This suit is black in color, heavily padded, and is used for practicing striking techniques. Mcgrew “resisted” as each of the MPs practiced their striking drills.

At the end of the class, the class examined the Monadnock Baton Chart to show where to strike according to the force needed to subdue a subject. The chart highlighted green areas for minimal level of restraint, yellow areas for moderate levels of restraint and red areas for the highest level of restraint.

The Soldiers were required to demonstrate all 26 techniques in order to pass the course and receive their certification.

Military policemen, attached to the 706th Military Intelligence Group, practice baton strikes during a baton training course Aug. 2. “I think the training was a success. It built camaraderie and confidence in their skills,” said Mcgrew.