During the time of  the 513th Camp King was garrisoned by MP's assigned to the 513th, Post Security was tighter. The post was a closed post and remained that way until closure. 

  During the 1970’s terrorism was common in Germany. The Red Army Faction, a terrorist organization, was active. The IG Farben building, Headquarters V. Corps was bombed two times during the 1970’s. The first bombing resulted in at least one death. There were also many threats made against the American people. Dependents viewed the danger with caution; however, it was not one of the major concerns. Dependents had a feeling of relative security and safety.

IG Farben Complex, later named Abrams Complex. Headquarters V Corps. Building in the back is the Officer’s Club which was damaged along when this building was bombed in the early 1970’s Back left is where Frankfurt High School was located. (Courtesy of Chip Chapman)

On many occasions bomb threats would be called into the schools. The building would have to evacuate until the MP’s and the German Police completed their search. It was not uncommon to find that students wanting to avoid classes had called in the threats.

During periods of tension, post security would be heightened until the situation diffused. Once the situation passed, it reverted to the status quo. Security on the post was conducted by unarmed UP’s (Unit Police). They checked ID’s at the gate. Other than that, it did not appear that there was any other official security.

Front gate where UP’s Checked ID Cards. Dya is on the right. The building in the background is the infamous closed factory where it is alleged the Soviets planted cameras to monitor activity. (Courtesy Frank Tinkerhoff, taken in the early 1980’s)

Law Enforcement was the responsibility of a unit garrisoned in Frankfurt. MP presence on Camp King was not that common.

If a soldier or dependent committed a crime or breach of peace, it was disposed of through the military community. If the German Polizei were involved, it was usually turned over to the Americans to handle, according to the Status of Forces Agreement. In some instances, though, the German Government could retain jurisdiction.