It is no secret that military Veterans make great police officers. Both professions require a level of dedication to service and the country. But how do you go from being a Veteran to becoming a police officer? Assist Chief of Police Michael Harris works with the Northern Las Vegas Police Department and served in both the Marine Corps and Army. This week he joined me to chat about how emotional intelligence, camaraderie, and being a good communicator are the keys to being a great police officer.

From Servicemember to Serving the Community

Becoming a police officer requires much more than just training; it requires many skills that have been developed throughout life experiences similar to those found in the military. During our conversation this week, Chief Harris explained that the benefits of police work are many, but the skills required are honed.

“You have to be emotionally intelligent”, said Harris. “You have to be able to understand people.” This intelligence is just one skill that many in the military learn. He also mentioned that fitness must be a lifestyle, something that candidates do on their own without coaching. Additionally, communication is fundamental when dealing with people. “Communication is enormous”, said Harris. “We want folks who have the ability to express themselves verbally and in written form.” Veterans know, these skills are all learned during military service.

Veterans are also service oriented. Like them, police officers need to be willing to give back to the community. “Police officers are responsible for the homeland…the home front. I look at it like we got your six,” said Harris.

If you’re a Servicemember or Veteran thinking about continuing to serve the community through policing, here are a few tips:

• Keep yourself fit. Fitness has to be a lifestyle.
• Educate yourself. You don’t have to have a college degree to join the police force but understand that knowledge is power. The brain needs to also be exercised.
• Actions have consequences that can be either positive or negative. Your actions today influence your future.

In some cases, Veterans and Servicemember who have police experience are able to go directly into the police force. Regardless of experience, untrained personnel will receive training through the academy.

Just as in the military, family is a big part of this profession. “We understand that your spouse and children have to go through this journey with you,” said Harris. Similar to the military, they also have support programs for Families and officers.

If you’re interested in making the transition from military to police officer, check out the City of North Las Vegas website where you can learn more about new entry and lateral transfer opportunities.

For More Information

Please watch the full video of this week’s Your Next Mission^® video podcast episode on our website, our YouTube channel, or our newly launched Rumble video channel.

Your Next Mission^® is a program initiative of the American Freedom Foundation, a non-profit
dedicated to serving our Veterans and Families. Your Next Mission^® video podcast with host
12th SMA (R) Jack L. Tilley features insightful conversation with subject matter experts from the
military and civilian communities. It’s a place where we can have frank and honest
conversation, tackle the tough questions, share stories, and have some fun along the way.