Expert: John L - 10/24/2009

Question
Hi,

I am only 17 years old and I definetly want to become a Cop when i get older and eventually become part of an elite tactical team such as swat etc..
I would just like to know the steps I have to take in order to become a Army Military Police officer.. Would you recommend the Army Reserves or the Army NG? and Why? Just basically give me as much info as possible. I am also obviously a female so would my gender be a factor on becoming a MP? I graduate high school in June 2010 so right now i am in my senior year in high school. What are the chances I would be deployed to Afghanistan/Iraq? I want to go into the army right out of high school. When do you think I would probably be deployed???

thanks..
Christine.

Answer
Becoming an MP will not help you become a cop, though as a female, it is better than any other job.  men should go infantry if they want to be a cop for the tactical reasons.  Most MP's are not anything like cops in the Army.  they handle prisoners, works customs, do security guard work.  A small portion do cop style work. So as a female, go for it.

If you want to join, start now!!  That way you can secure your job, but do not join unless you get what you want.

If you join, count on going to a war zone.  Doesnt mean you will, but count on it, no matter what branch you go in.

As far as regular Army or Guard, it depends on your college plans.  Most cops want college graduates and/or military experience.  If you have both, that is double.  If you go Guard, you can train as a MP and go to college.  If you go Army, you have to wait for college until after the Army.  If you are a good student and can finish college, Guard might be better.