Hey everyone, I've been thinking of serving as Military Police after graduating high school. Trying to do my research and having mixed feelings. Any suggestions on which military branch might be the top choice for this path?
The Armed Forces offer a lot of opportunities for a career in military police (MP), and each branch has its unique pros and cons that you may want to consider.
The Army and Navy have large, well-established military police forces. They carry out traditional police duties like patrolling, traffic control, and crime prevention. These branches might offer you a wider variety of locations for service, both stateside and abroad. The Army especially has a broad spectrum of Military Occupational Specialties that work with law enforcement, depending on your interest, such as corrections officers, criminal investigations, or dog handlers.
If you want to get involved with security and law enforcement but also have an interest in the Marine Corps, the MP program there is pretty strong too. MPs in the Marine Corps must be prepared to engage in combat missions, since all Marines are first and foremost, rifleman. So, your job would be a combination of combat readiness and law enforcement.
Air Force Security Forces are equivalent to MPs in other branches, and their duties cover everything from law enforcement to missile security, combat arms, and even canine handling.
Lastly, the Coast Guard isn't typically the first name that comes to mind when thinking of military police, but the Coast Guard's maritime law enforcement mission includes both domestic and international law enforcement responsibilities.
Remember to consider other factors like benefits, duration of training, and options for further education. Each branch also offers programs to earn degrees, so if you're interested in pursuing a criminal justice degree, you'd want to research what educational opportunities each branch offers.
Overall, all branches offer rewarding careers in military police, but the best choice depends on your personal goals and interests. Reach out to recruiters from each branch to know more about training, job responsibilities, and the education perks that might help you make the best decision for your future.
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