Photo By Sgt. Sally Armstrong | Capt. Sabrina Mortell, commander of Fort Cavazos Law Enforcement Activity,...... read more read more
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FORT CAVAZOS, TX – A significant milestone was reached today as the Fort Cavazos Law Enforcement Activity (LEA) was officially activated into the Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, III Armored Corps, September 27, 2024 in a ceremony attended by military leaders, family members, and community partners.
The event was held at the III Armored Corps Headquarters on Fort Cavazos, TX, where the new unit aims to enhance safety and security for the 550,000 soldiers, family members, and civilians in the area.
The ceremony included remarks by Col. Jeremy E. Kerfoot, Director of Emergency Services, Lt. Col. Michael Benner, Commander of Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, III Armored Corps, as well as uncasing of the unit's guidon and changing of the shoulder sleeve insignia.
The Fort Cavazos Law Enforcement Activity task and purpose is to assist, protect, and defend the community here at Fort Cavazos. The unit is activating and standing with a new profound partnership with the Department of the Army civilian police, Directorate of Emergency Services and other first responders.
Their areas of emphasis will consist of a law enforcement patrol branch, patrol desk operations, military police investigators, traffic accident investigators, civil police liaisons, wildlife conservations, physical security, training, and day to day operations.
The Fort Cavazos Law Enforcement Activity’s mission is to provide proficient, professional law enforcement trained soldiers, non-commissioned and commissioned officers that will assist, protect, and defend the 550,000 soldiers, family members and civilians that live, work and serve the great place covering over 242 square miles.
“As we activate this Military Police unit, the Fort Cavazos Law Enforcement Company Phantom Defenders, we honor the legacy of those who have served before us,” said Col. Kerfoot. “Their sacrifices and dedication to justice, order, and security inspire us to carry forward the mission of safeguarding our soldiers, our communities, and our nation.”
The LEA, part of the Directorate of Emergency Services, will work alongside Army civilian police and first responders to ensure a safe environment for all on the installation.
“The Phantom Defenders are more than just enforcers of law; they are guardians of the peace,” said Col. Kerfoot. “They uphold the principles of justice and ensure that the rule of law prevails, even in the most challenging environments. As we activate this unit, we equip each member with the skills, training, and support needed to excel in this critical role.”
After speeches commenced, Lt. Col Benner and Sgt. Maj. Torrian Peterson, changed the Phantom Defender’s shoulder insignia to the III Armored Corps caltrop patch to signify their welcome and inclusion to Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion.
"This is a time-honored Army tradition that bonds this new organization and its Soldiers to our Corps," he said.
The caltrop is the heraldic symbol of Ill Armored Corps, dating back to 1922, when it was approved by the United States War Department. It represents a simple, centuries old weapon composed of four points, designed to always have one point facing up. Throughout history, many variations were used as deployable obstacles to slow the advance of mounted troops.
“Honestly, I cannot think of a more perfect organizational insignia for the LEA, as modern-day law enforcement uses variations of this device, typically in the form of road spikes,” said Lt. Col. Benner.
The patch, featuring a caltrop, symbolizes the unit's dedication to maintaining security and order within the community.
As the ceremony concluded, attendees were invited to a reception hosted by Cpt. Mortell and 1st Sgt. Devon Robinson, providing an opportunity to celebrate this new chapter in Fort Cavazos' commitment to security and community service.
With the establishment of the LEA, Fort Cavazos reinforces its dedication to assist, protect, and defend not just military personnel but also the families and civilians who contribute to the community's vibrant environment. The Phantom Defenders stand ready to face challenges ahead, embodying the spirit of service that underpins the mission of the U.S. Army.
| Date Taken: | 09.27.2024 |
| Date Posted: | 09.27.2024 16:20 |
| Story ID: | 481977 |
| Location: | FORT CAVAZOS, TEXAS, US |
| Web Views: | 21 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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