The 372nd Military Police Battalion Distinctive Unit Insignia (DUI), commonly called a unit crest, visually portrays various aspects of the unit’s history and heritage. In the center, a shield with a blue background represents the Battalion’s origins as an Infantry unit. A gold-bordered scarlet bend—technically two “bendlets” and a bend—are from the coats of arms of Alsace and Lorraine and represent the unit’s service in those areas in World War I.
That service is also represented by the red hand, denoting the Battalion’s service with the French 157th “Red Hand” Division (inspired by the insignia worn by the French troops). Below the bend is a rattlesnake, recalling the unit’s service along the border in the months leading up to World War I. “We Guard The Peace” is the Battalion motto.
Distinctive Unit Insignias are worn by all Soldiers (except General Officers) in units that have been authorized to be issued the device. It is worn centered on the shoulder loops of the Army Green Service Uniform (AGSU) and the blue Army Service Uniform (ASU, Enlisted only) with the base of the insignia toward the outside shoulder seam. DUIs are not worn on the Dress variations of either uniform, however.
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As a member of the D.C. National Guard when not called in to active Federal service, the primary responsibility of the 372nd Military Police Battalion is dealing with crimes committed on D.C. National Guard property or investigating any potentially illegal activity that could involve members of the D.C. National Guard. Its personnel have been trained both as Police Officers and Soldiers, making them ideal for duties such as traffic control, security assignments, mobility support, and other functions, particularly during National Special Security events (Presidential Inaugurations, visits from foreign dignitaries, etc.). It comprises a Headquarters and Headquarters Detachment and two Military Police Companies (273rd and 276th), all of which are part of the District of Columbia Army National Guard.
As of Autumn 2023, the Battalion is assigned to the 74th Troop Command.