08/06/2026
10th Military Police Company, 10th Mountain Division in Afghanistan (2003–2004)
Operation Enduring Freedom
During 2003–2004, the 10th Military Police Company served alongside the 10th Mountain Division (Light Infantry) in Afghanistan during Operation Enduring Freedom. This period marked one of the most challenging phases of the war as coalition forces worked to disrupt Taliban and al-Qaeda networks while helping establish security and stability across the country.
Operating from bases in southern and eastern Afghanistan, the 10th MP Company performed a wide range of military police missions. Their responsibilities included convoy security, route reconnaissance, detainee operations, traffic control, base security, force protection, and law enforcement support. Soldiers frequently conducted mounted and dismounted patrols through difficult mountain terrain and remote villages while working with coalition partners and Afghan security forces.
One notable mission in September 2003 involved the 10th Military Police Company conducting joint vehicle checkpoints with Romanian Army forces near Kandahar to interdict illegal weapons trafficking and improve security along Highway 4. These operations helped disrupt insurgent movement and demonstrated the growing cooperation between coalition forces.
The 10th Mountain Division played a significant role in Afghanistan throughout 2003 and 2004. In addition to combat operations, division elements provided aviation support, humanitarian assistance, and training for Afghan security forces. The division's headquarters also served in senior command roles directing coalition ground operations before transitioning those responsibilities in 2004.
The deployment demanded resilience, professionalism, and adaptability. Military police soldiers routinely operated in austere environments, facing threats from ambushes, improvised explosive devices, and indirect fire while protecting fellow service members and supporting local communities.