SPECIAL FORCES BRANCH

The Special Forces Branch consists of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team, Motorcycle, Aviation and Canine Units, Community Relations and Special Events Offices.

Maintaining order during demonstrations, special events, and other planned and unplanned events and emergencies, the Special Forces Branch is also responsible for providing Presidential security and dignitary escort.

SWAT members work in special teams designed to operate in a wide range of high risk situations, i.e., barricades, hostage taking, special arrest warrants, snipers, and major civil disturbances. U.S. Park Police SWAT officers have trained members of the Armed Forces and more than 60 federal and state law enforcement agencies.

Trained to provide emergency services and to function as part of the military's protection plan for Washington, D.C., the Motorcycle Unit is also responsible for traffic enforcement, presidential and dignitary protection, and general police services. Other government personnel most recently trained by this Unit include the F.B.I., U.S. Capitol Police, and non-federal police departments from Pennsylvania, Illinois, Maryland and Virginia.

The Aviation Unit operates two Bell helicopters: one twin-engine 412SP and one single-engine 206 Long Ranger. Both aircraft are equipped with Forward Looking Infrared, a 31 million candle power search light, and medical and rescue equipment. Since its formation in 1973, this Unit has transported hundreds of injured citizens and rescued more than a hundred individuals in performance of its MEDIVAC and search and rescue mission. The United States Park Police Aviation Unit also supports the U.S. Secret Service with Presidential and dignitary protection.

The Canine Unit is specifically trained for drug and explosives detection. This special unit also provides search and rescue services and assists in securing areas prior to the arrival of the President, Vice President, and visiting Heads of State.

The Special Events Unit coordinates all of the First Amendment and special events that occur within the National Capital Region. This Unit acts as the liaison with the National Park Service during these special events and also works closely with U.S. Secret Service in setting up security details for the President of the United States and Heads of State.

Coordinating all presentations to school and community groups concerning the role and function of the Force, the Community Relations Unit is also responsible for Law Enforcement Explorers Post #1791. The Explorers learn various police procedures and perform many hours of community service.

Last updated - 03/03/06 03:23 PM, vej, slb