COB BASRA, Iraq - Maj. Jonathan Doyle, the 1st Infantry Division provost marshal, and a native of Alexandria, Va., was awarded the Order of the Marechaussee July 3 at Contingency Operation Base Basra.
The award is one of the highest honors bestowed upon a military policeman in the Military Police Regimental Association. It is named after the Marechaussee Corps, formed in 1778 at Valley Forge by Gen. George Washington to police the Army and secure fugitives.
"As an officer, Maj. Doyle epitomizes the army values," said Sgt. Maj. Paul Zedalis, 1st Infantry Division provost marshal sergeant major and a Fredericksburg, Va. native. "I knew with his background, knowledge and leadership abilities that he would be awarded the Marechaussee."
Zedalis said only 10 percent of the Soldiers that are nominated are awarded the Order of the Marechaussee.
"The award has to be approved by the Commandant of the Military Police Corps and less than 10 percent of the MPs in the Army with more than 10 years of service in the Military Police Corps Regiment are ever awarded the Marechaussee," Zedalis said.
Earning a nomination by peers not only says that there is a public confidence in his skills, but that others have taken notice of his accomplishments, Doyle said.
"This is a tremendous honor, because it means that I was nominated and selected by other members of the MP Corps Regiment for being good at my profession," Doyle said. "Being recognized by your peers is one of the highest honors that a person can receive."
There are three categories of the Order of the Marechaussee: Gold, Silver and Bronze. The bronze Doyle received indicates he was nominated by an MPRA MP Colonel or higher and the award was approved by the Commandant of the Military Police Corps. To be eligible, Doyle had to have rendered at least 10 years of significant service or support to more than one element of the MP Regiment.
Related Links:
1st Infantry Division and US Division-South Web Site
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