U.S. Army Field Manual FM 3-39, the Military Police Operations manual, is a critical resource for military police officers, trainers, and leaders. The manual provides comprehensive guidance on the roles, responsibilities, and operations of military police forces in a variety of situations, including both combat and non-combat operations.
The manual covers various topics, including the organization and capabilities of military police forces, the conduct of military police operations, and the management of detainees and prisoners of war. It also provides guidance on law enforcement operations, such as traffic control and investigations, and on the use of force and non-lethal weapons.
One of the key strengths of FM 3-39 is its comprehensive approach to military police operations. The manual provides detailed guidance on the planning and execution of military police operations, including the use of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance to identify threats and plan operations. It also covers a range of operational scenarios, including urban operations, stability operations, and counterinsurgency operations, providing military police officers with the knowledge and skills necessary to operate effectively in any environment they may encounter.
Moreover, the manual emphasizes the importance of human rights and the treatment of detainees and prisoners of war. It provides detailed guidance on the management of detainees, including their housing, medical care, and treatment, as well as the legal requirements for their detention and release. This emphasis on the humane treatment of detainees and prisoners of war is critical for ensuring that military police forces operate in accordance with international law and the principles of human rights.
Another strength of FM 3-39 is its relevance beyond the U.S. Army. The skills and knowledge taught in the manual apply to various situations, including law enforcement, emergency response, and security operations. The manual’s emphasis on planning, preparation, and teamwork is also valuable for anyone involved in security operations, whether in the military or civilian sectors.
In summary, U.S. Army Field Manual FM 3-39 is essential for military police officers, trainers, and leaders. Its comprehensive approach to military police operations, emphasis on human rights and the treatment of detainees, and relevance beyond the U.S. Army make it a critical tool for ensuring that military police forces operate effectively and in accordance with international law and the principles of human rights.
What is FM 3-39 About?
U.S. Army Field Manual FM 3-39, the Military Police Operations manual, is organized into several sections, each covering a specific aspect of military police operations.
The manual begins with an overview of the organization and capabilities of military police forces, including their role in providing security and law enforcement support to military operations. It also provides guidance on the development of policies and procedures for military police operations, as well as the training and preparation of military police personnel.
The second section of the manual covers the conduct of military police operations, including the use of intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance to identify threats and plan operations. It also provides guidance on the planning and execution of a range of military police operations, including urban operations, stability operations, and counterinsurgency operations.
The third section of the manual focuses on the management of detainees and prisoners of war. It provides detailed guidance on the legal requirements for the detention and treatment of detainees, including their housing, medical care, and treatment. It also covers the processes for releasing and repatriating detainees and prisoners of war.
The fourth section of the manual covers law enforcement operations, including traffic control and investigations. It provides guidance on the use of force and non-lethal weapons, as well as the legal requirements for conducting law enforcement operations.
The fifth section of the manual covers the use of lethal force in military police operations, including the rules of engagement and the use of deadly force in the self-defense or defense of others. It also covers the use of lethal force in riot control and crowd management operations.
Finally, the manual includes the following:
- Several appendices provide additional information on topics such as using non-lethal weapons.
- The protection of civilians in military operations.
- Using force in international law.
These appendices provide military police officers with additional tools and techniques for operating effectively and in accordance with international law and the principles of human rights.
Field Manual FM 3-39 is comprehensive and provides military police officers, trainers, and leaders with the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct effective military police operations in various scenarios. The manual’s emphasis on the humane treatment of detainees and prisoners of war and its relevance beyond the U.S. Army makes it a critical resource for anyone involved in security operations.