FORT HOOD – Fort Hood’s Military Police have brought back their motorcycle patrols to improve traffic enforcement on post. Police hope their presence will cut down on the amount of speeders and prevent traffic accidents.
“It is definitely a preventative measure because we are seen in areas where patrol cars are not usually seen,” said Specialist Alex Marquardt, one of the new Fort Hood motorcycle officers.
The decision to revive the program was an easy one. Fort Hood’s Department of Emergency Services already had a small fleet of motorcycles used by patrolmen several years ago. They just needed to find two willing and experienced soldiers.
“I was excited about it,” said Marquardt. “I was always interested in motorcycles so I figured I’d give it a shot.”
Marquardt and Sergeant Jesus Cantoran with the 720th Military Police Battalion made the list. After an extensive certification process in February, the two are now the only Fort Hood motorcycle officers. They also make up a very, very small group of MP motorcycle officers across the entire Army.
“I thought combining the two – motorcycles and law enforcement – would be my perfect world scenario,” said Cantoran.
Both soldiers say the benefits of having motor patrols are clear. Their small size allow them to hide from speeders. They can also be more visible in areas known for speeding.
“What I focus on mainly in the mornings is school zones when school is in,” said Marquardt. “I’ll sit off on the side of the road so people see me, and I’ll go there three days out of the week. It develops a pattern out there, and they’ll slow down and they see the lights flashing.”
Cantoran also says he is able to respond to accidents much faster on a motorcycle than most patrol cars or SUVs.
“There is definitely maneuverability in getting in to smaller, tight areas,” said Cantoran. “There’s also speed and getting to calls quicker.”
The program will also benefit the soldiers when they decide to transition out of the Army. Their certification can carry over to civilian law enforcement agencies.
“There were four other civilian officers with us at the certification class who each had at least five years on their respective force before being selected for the motors program. This definitely gives us a leg up,” said Marquardt.
The Military Police Brigade hope to expand the motors program on Fort Hood by having more soldiers certified to patrol on motorcycles.
