Expert: Dick Rogers - 7/17/2011

Question
Good Afternoon,
I have a question about becoming a police officer.  I was honorably discharged from the US Marine Corps in 2005.  I then decided to join the National Guard in 2006. I missed three drills and was discharged with a general under honorable conditions in 2007. Since then I have went back to college and double majored in criminal justice and sociology.  I am the president of my schools criminal justice club and the student veterans organization.  I am also involved with my communities citizen police organization.  I have no criminal background and have never tried any drug.  My question is does my second discharge stop my from becoming a law enforcement officer.  My state is North Carolina, if that helps.  Thank you for your time and enjoy your weekend

Answer
Shaun, I wouldn't worry at all about the National Guard discharge.  Your service before that was obviously exemplary and you have shown a willingness to achieve by virtue of your college education.  I would not hesitate to consider you for hire.  One thing about the National Guard commitment is that it frequently conflicts with ones life in a civilian setting...more like you are military, but then again, you are not.  Go for it and I think you will be happy with the outcome.