I’m transitioning from active duty Marine Corps to the Marine Corps Reserve while applying to the Orlando Police Department. I also plan to change my MOS from Motor T to Infantry, which would require about three months of infantry training. Would it be wiser to wait until after I complete the police academy, the FTO program, and I’m off probation as a sworn officer before pursuing the MOS change, or could I manage both timelines simultaneously?
With DHS agencies like CBP and ICE trying to ramp up hiring and increase manpower, would it currently be easier for a veteran with no prior law enforcement experience to get certified and hired into federal LE compared to a few years ago?
Or would going local/state LE first still make someone significantly more competitive?
Also curious about the long-term stability side of things. With how political DHS and immigration enforcement can become depending on the administration.
Let’s say it is, would taking the plunge to DHS to gain the the Fed LE background for your resume be worth it if you probably get laid off after the next election to downsize or dismantle DHS: CBP/ICE?
Or just stick to applying to Orlando PD? 😂
I’m currently active duty in the Marine Corps and transitioning into the reserves soon. I’m heading back home and applying with four agencies right now (2 city PDs and 2 county Sheriff’s Offices).
Coming from the military, I’m pretty used to rigid structure, standards, and uniformity… but I also know law enforcement culture can vary a lot depending on the agency.
From the outside looking in, I’ve noticed two very different styles:
• Agencies that are strict on appearance and uniform standards (traditional uniforms, leather or basket weave gear, less personalization)
• Agencies that allow more flexibility (outer carriers, loadout customization, polos/cargo pants, etc.)
For those of you already on the job:
Which type of agency do you prefer working for and why?
Does stricter uniform policy usually reflect better leadership/discipline, or just more unnecessary headaches?
On the flip side, do more relaxed agencies actually feel better day-to-day, or does it come with downsides?
Just trying to get a better feel for what kind of environment I’d enjoy long term.