Charlotte Richter | Staff Writer
Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 40th Military Police Battalion (Detention),
received the 2021 Brigadier General Thomas F. Barr Award for the best military police company in U.S Army Corrections Command during a ceremony Dec. 1 on Main Parade.
The Barr Award was established in 2009 and annually recognizes the best military police unit, company or smaller, that is assigned to, attached to or supporting ACC. The award
is based on total unit accomplishments, in every phase of activity as part of the unit’s
mission. Award criteria include meeting standards on physical fitness tests, weapons qualifications, educational attainment, community development and unit and/or individual soldier accomplishments.
“It’s a very competitive award that’s not easily obtained, so you ought to be proud,” Maj. Gen. Duane Miller, U.S. Army provost marshal general and ACC commanding general, told the soldiers of HHC, 40th, during the ceremony.
Miller said the past year of COVID-19 continues to challenge the brigade, but military police and corrections have a history of adaptability. He emphasized how the company earned its achievement despite virtual and distanced operations and a lack of face-to-
face interaction.
“I’m incredibly impressed how all of the leaders at all levels adapted to this difficult environment, especially you, operating in non-stop corrections,” Miller said. “I’m inspired
every day by your efforts — soldiers like you are exactly the type of soldiers our regiment
and Army need: resilient, fit, thoughtful and professional leaders who represent the very
best of America.
“The soldiers of the 40th MP Battalion, especially the HHC in this case, are highly trained, disciplined, and they know how to win.”
Miller said the battalion represents the regimental motto of “Assist, Protect, Defend!”
through its achievements this year. He praised the battalion’s consistent care for the only
maximum-security prison in the Department of Defense and support of the soldiers and
families in the organization.
Miller and ACC Command Sgt. Maj. James Breckinridge presented the award to the company, accepted by HHC, 40th Commander Capt. Jacob Bales and HHC, 40th 1st Sgt.
Ryan Miller, and extended their congratulations to company leadership.
