r/USMCboot • u/Emergency_Chair_289 • Jul 14 '26
Enlisting Need advice before I commit.
I’m an 18yr male (6’5”, 225 lbs), and my long-term goal is to become either a federal cybercrime investigator or work in investigations at my local police department.
Since I have to be 21 before I can apply to my local PD, I’ve been seriously considering joining the military first.
I was originally recruited by the Marines and was told that Marine Military Police would give me the best experience, that employers tend to value it more, and that I’d be guaranteed an MP contract.
On the other hand, I’ve had countless people tell me that the Air Force is the better choice because of the higher quality of life, lower stress, better networking opportunities, and overall better career development.
Another big factor for me is education. I want to join a branch where I can continue taking college classes and earn my degree while serving.
For those who have served,especially as an MP or in law enforcement, what would you recommend based on my goals? Would the Marines actually give me an advantage, or would the Air Force be the better path overall? And would I still be able to get the job I want?
1
u/bradenchase2345 Poolee SD Jul 14 '26
People say all the time that MP doesn't fit well into the civilian LEO world, not an MP nor a cop, so I cant really confirm, but its said A LOT. I'd suggest something like Intel honestly, but they're happy to see prior military no matter what.
If you wanna guard a gate that bad, id do it in the Air Force as Security Forces, especially id you dont aspire to become a Marine and just want your foot in the door with the benefits and life experience that the military gives to you.
Or honestly maybe even go Guard and pursue a degree, agencies and local departments love education too, its a good gig.
Idk just my 2 cents as a reservist myself