32 MP Pl

32nd Military Police Platoon

32 MP Pl continued it's role as training platoon for the Company preparing members for IET and promotion courses in addition to supplementing other platoons with manpower for tasks when required. In addition the Platoon has, until very recently, maintained a section at Bandiana, to supplement the general duties policing activities of 53 MP Pl. Towards the end of the year the Bandiana Section was transferred to 3e1 MP Pl to enable 32 to concentrate on their training role. But before it transferred we ensured that our Section Commander at Bandiana, received his long-awaited third chevron, much to the relief of the Company's hierarchy as he has now stopped badgering!

While Operation Acolyte dominated the lives of our qualified members, the years start as always was marked by the attendance of our trainees at the suite of basic course modules at DPTC. Once again our members performed creditably which is no small reflection on the professionalism and dedication of our instructors who prepared them during the latter part of 2005. In 2006 the routine continues with BFAs to organise, WTSS ranges to book along with the obligatory lessons / lectures to attend. Most Tuesday nights were accounted for by the mundane but essential activities leading up to weekend consolidation and ultimate success on courses.

A sad farewell for a highly respected old soldier and real ‘identity' in 3 MP Coy, our former Platoon Commander was the low point of the year for all of the soldiers who'd had the privilege to have served with him. From his time on active service with 4RAR in SVN in 1971 to the present, “Jacko” has racked up more service than most and as a former RSM of the corps it's hard to imagine the place without him. We hope his new unit, Monash University Regiment, appreciates him like we did and if the reader will allow one more cliche it really was the “end of an era” at Freer Lines. All the best, Jeff!

The Australian commitment to Timor Leste in mid-year saw the Platoon lose two of its mainstays. While GRes members were not able to deploy Sharon and Bill headed off at short notice compliments of their civilian employment with the Australian Federal Police contingent. At the time of writing Sharon has returned while Bill keeps seeking extension to stay in country.

The quality and quantity of trainees coming into the Platoon during 2006 augurs well for the future of the Corps. The diversity of backgrounds, skills and experiences they bring epitomises what has always been one of the main strengths of the Army Reserve.