3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division

Story by Staff Sgt. David Hopkins

KUNAR PROVINCE, Afghanistan – Two companies from the 759th Military Police Battalion have come to northeastern Afghanistan, and in an Assumption of Responsibility ceremony, June 5, assumed the duties of the 527th MP Company.

The new MPs, based out of Fort Carson, Colo., officially started their deployment when they uncased their colors in front of a formation of MPs at the Nangarhar Terminal in Jalalabad.

"Welcome to Task Force Duke and to the area," said Army Col. John Spiszer, commander of the 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division. "What you are doing here isn't just killing bad guys; you have to change the perception of the people. You have to give the people faith in their government and hope for their future."

The mission is one the Soldiers of the 759th are experienced with and ready for. They will be working with the Afghan uniformed police and partnering with the Operational Coordination Center near the Pakistan border. Accomplishing their missions and returning to the states safely is the paramount objective.

"We just need to do our job and mission the best we can and get back safe to our families," said Army Spc. Jessy Brown, military policeman from Missoula, Mont.

The unit had been preparing for the deployment long before they cased their colors a month ago at Fort Carson. Unit leadership believes in the ability of their Soldiers to accomplish the mission here.

"Your training and preparation, mixed with your professionalism and dedication have been evident in every step of the way," said Army Lt. Col. Laurence Lobdell, 759th commander, looking over the faces of his Soldiers standing tall in formation. "Each and every one of you has an integral role in this unit, and I often remind you, as I will again today, to never forget your personal stake in your unit's greatness."

With the 759th just starting their 12-month tour, the job ahead may seem daunting, but they will work throughout their deployment to complete the mission their country has asked them to do.

"We are here. We aren't leaving until the mission is complete," said Lobdell, "so together let's make it happen."

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