Become a Cop >> Browse Articles >> 10 Steps to Joining the Force for Military Service Members
Step 10: Common Hurdles Faced by Veterans
PoliceLink and Military.com
If you’re like most military service members, you’ve spent your entire working career in the military. You know how it works and you know how to work with it. Getting out and entering the civilian world can be daunting to think about. You’ll hit your fair share of hurdles along the way. As long as you expect them, they should be easier to overcome.
We asked a few veterans who are now sworn law enforcement officers some of the things they ran into during their transition into civilian law enforcement. We hope these tips help better prepare you for your own journey into the most rewarding career of your life.
Starting at the bottom
Starting at the bottom
PTSD
Being considered overly aggresive
After moving your way up through the ranks, be prepared to start at the bottom all over again. This applies to officers and enlisted service members alike. You will be considered the “rookie” for the next few years and will have to earn the respect of the LEOs you are now working with. And be sure you can take a practical joke.
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder
Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) is one of those things that people often don’t want to talk about. If you served in a combat zone or otherwise feel that you could be suffering from PTSD, seek help. Don’t be ashamed about it. It can be overcome, but not if you refuse to do anything about it.
Military.com has pulled together a lot of great resources about combat zone PTSD that can help you find the treatment you may need.
Being considered overly aggressive
Many agencies are paying closer attention to personnel who are returning to active law enforcement service after being called to active duty and deployed to combat zones. The actual number of cases of returning veterans acting aggressively are few and far between, but because of the liability involved, agencies don’t wish to take chances. You may be subjected to additional interviews or monitoring if you’ve served in a combat zone. Don’t take it personally, and do what you can to alleviate any concerns.
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© 2008, PoliceLink and Military.com
StatS
about 1 year ago
42 Comments
Thanks for that comment made by the first person in the bottom. It is the truth, and once you step back into Civilian world you are starting in the bottom again.
NightWolff
about 1 year ago
940 Comments
Good to know. Thanks for the post
johnkenna1980
about 1 year ago
2 Comments
AT this point I am looking for a law enforcement job and finding that going from one to the other I will have to go a few months without a career job. It all is very daunting even though I have already applied for a position in beaumont texas.
vshort
about 1 year ago
8 Comments
This is exactly what I needed to hear three years ago and I will pass this wisdom on, to other veterans who are transitioning to the civilian sector regardless of the field of specialty. Thank you Police Link.
gregorypaige
about 1 year ago
14 Comments
Having worked in law enforcement in the State of Georgia, rising to the rank of LT., I find that most Sheriffs feel intimidated by military personnel, especially if you are a retiree. You are not promoted based upon what you know, it is who the Sheriff wants to be the LT and SGTs. Forget about a college degree, being physically fit and being highly decorated while on active duty. All that is over.