WEST Devon soldier Lance Corporal Phil Smith is set to enforce law and order around the world after successfully completing the tough course to become a military police officer — one of the famous 'Red Caps'. Phil, 22, is one of a select group of young soldiers who can now officially wear the distinctive red beret of the army police and serve at any of the military's bases across the globe. Becoming a Royal Military Police (RMP) officer involves 23 weeks of dedicated work and long hours of study. Once selected for the specialist training, candidates have to absorb information on all aspects of law and order, as well as prove their ability to deal with suspects and victims in what may be emotional or dangerous situations. In the final stages of the programme, candidates work on a shift system to man a simulated police station 24 hours a day, where incidents can come in at any time and interviews are filmed for assessment. Phil, who hopes to get a chance to go for a position in the covert observation team, said: 'The RMP offers a varied and diverse career, with opportunities to work in a wide range of places and operational theatres. 'It's a demanding job which requires a high level of responsibility and professionalism. 'My parents are proud of me for joining the British Army and the Royal Military Police. They are proud of all I have achieved since joining up.' Phil, a former pupil of Tavistock College, was a seaman with the Royal Fleet Auxiliary before joining the RMP. His father, Stephen, lives in Tavistock.
