Hi, y'all! I'm looking into options post-high school graduation. I've heard the military can be a great stepping stone, so I'm wondering which branch you guys think is best suited for a criminal justice background.
Hello! Given your interest in criminal justice, you might want to look into the different law enforcement or investigative roles available within the various branches of the military.
One option to consider is the U.S. Air Force, specifically the Security Forces specialty. This involves protecting the base and its inhabitants, conducting investigations, and maintaining law enforcement.
The U.S. Army has the Military Police (MP) career field that also might align well with your focus. MPs maintain law and order, investigate crimes, and perform duties similar to civilian police officers.
The U.S. Coast Guard has a special Investigative Service (CGIS) that conducts criminal investigations. This isn't an entry-level position, so you would begin in another Coast Guard role and work towards CGIS.
The U.S. Navy has the role of Master at Arms, sailors who conduct law enforcement, force protection, physical security, and operational planning on naval installations.
Meanwhile, in the U.S. Marine Corps, the Military Police occupation could be a fit. They prevent and investigate any law infractions committed on a Marine Corps installation.
It's important to note that regardless of the branch, all these roles require additional training and potentially further education. I suggest reaching out to a recruiter for each branch to get more specific information in line with your skills and interests. Remember, each of these roles has different characteristics that may fit your needs and career aspirations better than others. Good luck with your research and future career!
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